migrate sonarr to new machine

3 min read 01-10-2024

Migrating your Sonarr installation to a new machine can seem daunting, especially if you've invested significant time in customizing your setup and organizing your media library. However, by following a straightforward process, you can ensure a smooth transition. In this article, we’ll explore the migration process, answer common questions, and provide additional insights to enhance your experience.

What is Sonarr?
Why Migrate Sonarr?
Pre-Migration Checklist
Step-by-Step Migration Process
Post-Migration Tasks
Common Questions
Conclusion

What is Sonarr?

Sonarr is an open-source TV series management tool that automates the downloading, sorting, and renaming of episodes. It acts as a frontend for various torrent and Usenet clients, allowing users to keep track of their favorite shows effortlessly.

Why Migrate Sonarr?

There could be various reasons for migrating Sonarr, including:

Upgrading to a more powerful machine
Changing operating systems
Moving to a dedicated server
Backing up your Sonarr configuration

Pre-Migration Checklist

Before you start the migration process, it’s essential to ensure you have everything prepared:

Backup Your Database: It's crucial to back up Sonarr's database before making changes. You can do this by copying the Sonarr.db file found in the app data folder.
Export Settings: Sonarr allows you to export settings. Navigate to Settings -> General and look for the "Export" option.
Note Down Your Custom Settings: Document any custom settings and paths you've configured, such as download clients and notifications.
Install Required Software on the New Machine: Ensure the new machine has Sonarr installed along with any download clients or media server software you use.

Step-by-Step Migration Process

Here’s a concise guide to moving Sonarr to a new machine:

Step 1: Install Sonarr

On your new machine, download and install the latest version of Sonarr from the official website.

Step 2: Transfer the Database

Locate the original Sonarr database file, typically found in C:\ProgramData\Sonarr on Windows or ~/.config/Sonarr on Linux.
Copy the Sonarr.db file to a USB drive or cloud storage.
Paste it in the corresponding directory on the new machine.

Step 3: Transfer Configuration Files

Copy the entire Sonarr configuration folder from the old machine.
Paste it in the same location on the new machine, replacing any existing files.

Step 4: Transfer Your Media Files

Ensure that your media library is accessible to Sonarr on the new machine.
Update paths in the settings if your media files are located in different directories.

Step 5: Test Your Setup

Start Sonarr on the new machine.
Verify that your library, settings, and download clients are functioning as expected.
If you encounter issues, double-check the database and configuration files.

Post-Migration Tasks

After a successful migration, consider these steps:

Reconfigure download clients: Make sure that the download clients (like NZBGet or qBittorrent) are configured correctly.
Update to the Latest Version: Check if there’s an updated version of Sonarr and install it for optimal performance.
Monitor Logs: After starting Sonarr, monitor the logs for any errors that may require attention.

Common Questions

What if I encounter database corruption during the migration?

If your Sonarr.db file becomes corrupt, you can revert to the backup you created before migration. Always ensure to keep regular backups of your database to avoid loss of information.

Will I lose my download history?

No, as long as you successfully transfer the Sonarr.db file and configuration files, your download history and settings should remain intact.

Can I migrate to a different operating system?

Yes, but you will need to ensure that you have the corresponding version of Sonarr that is compatible with your new OS and that you reconfigure any system-specific settings (like file paths).

Conclusion

Migrating Sonarr to a new machine doesn’t have to be a stressful process. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring that you’ve backed up your data, you can smoothly transition your setup.

Remember, the key to a successful migration is preparation and thoroughness. Feel free to reach out to the Sonarr community or explore the official documentation for any further questions. Enjoy your new and improved Sonarr experience!

Attribution

The original ideas and information found in this article have been informed by common practices and insights from the Sonarr community on GitHub. Special thanks to the contributors who provide invaluable resources for users looking to optimize their experience with Sonarr.

Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below, or let us know if you have further questions on migrating Sonarr!