Operate and incrementally modernise legacy applications
WZ-IT stabilises older PHP, Java, .NET, and Python applications, assumes a clearly defined operational scope, and plans required modernisation as a separate incremental path.
PHP
Java
.NET
Python
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Stabilise production operations and reduce technical debt separately
Ongoing operations are scoped by application, versions, dependencies, and recoverability. Upgrades, containerisation, or redevelopment are separate project components and are not presented as an unspecified part of the operations contract.
Legacy application operations
Monitoring, updates within a viable scope, backup management, documentation, and incident triage for the existing stack.
Take over an organically grown server estate
When access, documentation, or system condition are unclear, the process starts with inventory and a server audit before an ongoing contract.
View server takeoverTechnologies We Support
From classic PHP monoliths to Java enterprise applications - we know the quirks of older stacks and keep them running reliably.
PHP
Magento, Shopware, WordPress, Typo3
Java
Spring, Tomcat, JBoss
.NET
.NET on Linux
Python
Django, Flask, Plone
Our Approach
Three phases - from immediate stabilization to long-term modernization.
Stabilize
Secure & Monitor
We secure the existing system, connect it to our 24/7 monitoring, and close critical security gaps without jeopardizing ongoing operations.
Containerize
Docker / Podman
Isolate the application in containers for reproducible deployments, easier maintenance and independent scaling of individual components.
Modernize
Incremental Migration Path
Step-by-step migration using the strangler fig pattern: new features in modern stacks, legacy components are gradually replaced.
What's Included in Operations
All services that ensure stable and secure operation of your legacy application.
Runtime Monitoring
24/7 proactive monitoring of availability, performance, and resource utilization.
Security Patching
Regular security updates for OS, runtime and dependencies.
Performance Optimization
Analysis and tuning of database queries, caching and response times.
Backup & Recovery
Daily backups with tested restore processes and retention policies.
Dependency Updates
Updates for libraries, frameworks and runtime environments.
Log Analysis
Central log aggregation, error tracking and proactive anomaly detection.
Modernization Path
No big-bang rewrite, but controlled, step-by-step evolution of your application.
Strangler Fig Pattern
The strangler fig pattern enables gradual replacement of a legacy system: new features are developed in a modern stack while existing functionality is progressively migrated. The old system remains operational throughout - it is not shut down but replaced piece by piece.
Containerization
Containerization with Docker or Podman decouples your legacy application from the infrastructure. This simplifies maintenance, enables reproducible deployments and makes a later move to modern platforms significantly easier.
Enquiry
Assess your legacy system
Choose between stable continued operation, gradual modernisation, and monitoring only.
Typical Legacy Stacks We Take Over
The same principle applies in every case: stabilize, secure (as far as possible without upstream patches), document and map out a realistic modernization path.
PHP 5.x / 7.x applications
Shops, CMS and custom applications on PHP versions without security support. We stabilize operations, isolate the application and map out the path to PHP 8.x.
Java 8 / Tomcat
Spring and Tomcat applications on old JDKs. We harden the configuration, monitor the JVM and document the migration path to a current LTS release.
.NET Framework
Applications on the classic .NET Framework. We keep operations stable, document dependencies and map out the path to modern .NET.
Ubuntu / Debian / CentOS EOL
Servers on releases without vendor support. We secure them as far as possible without upstream patches - for example through segmentation and monitoring - and plan the migration to supported versions.
MySQL 5.x
Databases on MySQL 5.x. We verify backups, keep operations stable and prepare the upgrade to MySQL 8 or MariaDB.
Inherited Docker hosts
Undocumented container setups from a predecessor or external provider. We inventory images and compose files, document the setup and establish an update process.
Further guides
These services complement legacy operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most important questions
Any application based on a technology that is no longer actively supported or is outdated - e.g. PHP 5.x/7.x, Java 8 or older framework versions like Magento 1, Typo3 v8 or Spring 3. We also treat systems without CI/CD pipelines, without containerization or with undocumented infrastructure as legacy.
Not during the stabilization phase - we work exclusively at the infrastructure and configuration level. Code changes only happen during the modernization step and only in coordination with your development team. We document everything and ensure your team understands the code at all times.
Stabilization and containerization typically takes 2-4 weeks. Full modernization using the strangler fig pattern is a continuous process that can take 3-12 months depending on complexity - your application remains available throughout.
Stabilization is delivered as a fixed-price project. Ongoing operations (monitoring, patching, backups) are billed as a monthly flat rate. Modernization projects are calculated by effort or as sprint-based fixed prices - always transparent and predictable.
Yes - that is the rule rather than the exception. A structured inventory is a fixed part of the takeover: we catalog servers, services, dependencies and access credentials, document the setup and close the gaps left behind by the predecessor. In the end there is documentation your team can work with again.
Then we harden the environment around it: network segmentation, a reverse proxy in front of the application, restrictive firewall rules and close monitoring. Honestly, a residual risk remains that cannot be fully eliminated without upstream patches - which is why we always recommend a concrete modernization path in parallel.
Yes. We virtualize physical servers via P2V migration and encapsulate suitable applications in containers. Both are proven stabilization steps: a reproducible environment, clean backups and easier maintenance, without touching the application code. As a virtualization platform we rely on Proxmox VE.
That depends on risk and effort: age of the stack, criticality, state of documentation and desired response times. That is why we calculate individually after a short assessment. Entry via pure monitoring is available from €79.90 per month.
Operations that visibly relieve customers
Customer feedback on monitoring, updates, maintenance, support and stable production systems.
“WZ-IT moved our studio infrastructure from decentralised individual devices to a central platform: every site is securely connected via VPN, new devices are onboarded automatically and an entire site is provisioned from a template, without manual steps on location. What impressed me most is the breadth and depth of their knowledge: Timo and Robin are not a typical IT provider who sets up a server and leaves. The two of them think their way into highly complex infrastructure and software topics, work through every requirement we put in front of them, and build networking, provisioning and operations so that everything fits together in the end. WZ-IT is an excellent partner for complex software, network and architecture projects.”
Steve Kirchner
Managing Director, nextGYM GmbH
“Professional, honest and technically thoroughly sound: WZ-IT set up our Proxmox and backup infrastructure securely and future-proof. The consulting from Timo and Robin was objective and needs-driven, the implementation smooth and the final documentation exemplary. You can tell immediately that business-critical infrastructure is thought through holistically from the outset here and implemented with clear ownership.”
Pascal Block
Project Manager, Stadtwerke Brühl GmbH
Stadtwerke Brühl - municipal energy and infrastructure utility.
“WZ-IT provided very competent support in implementing our server and virtualization infrastructure. As part of the project, a Proxmox-based virtualization environment was set up along with a virtual machine for our application systems. Additionally, a structured backup concept was implemented. A particular focus was on security: the setup of a VPN tunnel and the clean implementation of encryption and access concepts were professionally executed. The structured consulting as well as the reliable and swift implementation deserve special mention. We are very satisfied with the services provided and are happy to recommend WZ-IT.”
John Hellmerichs
Managing Director, AInergy GmbH
AInergy - consultancy for energy and facility management.
“WZ-IT manages our Proxmox cluster reliably and professionally. The team handles continuous monitoring and regular updates for us and responds very quickly to any issues or inquiries. They also configure new nodes, systems, and applications that we need to add to our cluster. With WZ-IT's proactive support, our cluster and the business-critical applications running on it remain stable, and high availability is consistently ensured. We value the professional collaboration and the noticeable relief it brings to our daily operations.”
Pascal Hakkers
Aphy AG
Aphy AG - AI platform for hotel back-office.
“Communication with WZ-IT was open, friendly and professional from the very beginning. Mr. Wevelsiep and Mr. Zins responded to every one of our questions patiently, promptly and respectfully, and contributed their own suggestions and good ideas on how to modernize our server infrastructure and adapt it even better to our needs. Throughout, WZ-IT consistently kept our need for data sovereignty and GDPR compliance in mind. Even short-notice adjustments and change requests from our side were implemented quickly and patiently and integrated consistently into the overall concept. From planning to the final handover, every step was documented transparently and comprehensively - so if a provider change should ever become necessary, the documentation would let us onboard a successor into our infrastructure very quickly. We are extremely satisfied with WZ-IT and hope to continue working together for a long time.”
Christoph Mußmann
Project Officer, DGHO e.V.
DGHO - German Society for Hematology and Medical Oncology.
“I got to know Timo and Robin as dedicated and professional partners who make a lot of things possible for their clients that initially seem impossible. I felt very well advised. The services offered have thoroughly convinced me. (translated)”
Andrea Pawlowski
Communications Manager, Golem.de
Golem.de - leading German IT news outlet.
“While looking for a partner to integrate a local AI solution, we came across Timo and Robin - and could not have made a better decision. They quickly understood our requirements and solved technical challenges competently and pragmatically. We were particularly impressed by the straightforward collaboration, their high level of expertise and the speed of implementation. We are delighted to have Timo and Robin at our side as reliable business partners and look forward to our next projects together. (translated)”
Henrik Jeche
Head of IT Administration
ml&s - full-service provider for the electronics industry.
“With Timo and Robin, you're not only on the safe side technically - you also get the best human support! Whether it's quick help in everyday life or complex IT solutions: the guys from WZ-IT think along with you, act quickly and speak a language you understand. The collaboration is uncomplicated, reliable and always on an equal footing. That makes IT fun - and above all: it works! Big thank you to the team! (translated)”
Sonja Aßer
Data Manager, ARGE
ARGE Neue Medien - master data & digital standards for plumbing and building technology.
“I recently worked with Timo and the WZ-IT team, and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best tech decisions I have made for my business. Right from the start, Timo took the time to walk me through every step in a simple and calm way. No matter how many questions I had, he never rushed me. The results speak for themselves. With WZ-IT, we reduced our monthly expenses from $1,300 down to $250. This was a huge win for us.”
Aleksandr Shuliko
CTO, EVA Real Estate
EVA Real Estate - leading real-estate agency in Dubai.
“We have had very good experiences with Mr. Wevelsiep and WZ-IT. The consultation was professional, clearly understandable, and at fair prices. The team not only implemented our requirements but also thought along and proactively. Instead of just processing individual tasks, they provided us with well-founded explanations that strengthened our own understanding. WZ-IT took a lot of pressure off us with their structured approach - that was exactly what we needed and is the reason why we keep coming back. (translated)”
Matthias Zimmermann
Managing Director, Annota GmbH
Annota - healthtech startup with an AI documentation assistant.
“Timo and Robin from WZ-IT set up a RocketChat server for us - and I couldn't be more satisfied! From the initial consultation to the final implementation, everything was absolutely professional, efficient, and to my complete satisfaction. I particularly appreciate the clear communication, transparent pricing, and the comprehensive expertise that both bring to the table. Even after the setup, they take care of the maintenance, which frees up my time enormously and allows me to focus on other important areas of my business - with the good feeling that our IT is in the best hands. I can recommend WZ-IT without reservation and look forward to continuing our collaboration! (translated)”
Sebastian Maier
Managing Director, Yonju GmbH
Yonju - business coaching and AI products.
“Counting on WZ-IT team was crucial, their expertise and solutions gave us the pace to deploy in production our services, even suggesting and performing improvements over our configuration and setup. We expect to keep counting on them for continuous maintenance of our services and implementation of new solutions.”
Gabriel Sanz Señor
Managing Director, Odiseo Solutions
Odiseo Solutions - software engineering for the space industry.
Let's talk about your project - honest and no strings attached
- Straight with Timo and Robin - no sales team, no pitch
- An honest take, including when we are not the right fit
- Concrete next steps for infrastructure, software or AI
No risk: worst case, you leave with a clearer understanding of your project than before.
“WZ-IT's advice on our Azure migration was technically sound and completely non-binding right from the intro call - we took away a great deal.”
Let's Talk About Your Idea
Whether a specific IT challenge or just an idea - we look forward to the exchange. In a brief conversation, we'll evaluate together if and how your project fits with WZ-IT.
Arrange a callback
Companies worldwide trust WZ-IT