If we change to JIRA cloud, do we have to buy zephyr cloud version?

[WW _ 정유정]

Now we use JIRA data center and zephyr essential. If we change to JIRA cloud, do we have to buy zephyr cloud version? Or we do not have to buy zephyr cloud version and use zephyr essential which is used now? 

[Dr_ Ankita Mehta-OpsHub_ Inc]

Hi @WW _ 정유정 

When moving from Jira Data Center to Jira Cloud, Zephyr Essential (Server/Data Center) does not carry over directly.

Zephyr on Cloud is a separate app, so you would typically need to install and subscribe to the Cloud version. The Server/Data Center license cannot be reused on Cloud.

Also, it’s important to note that:

• Test cases, executions, and history from Zephyr Essential do not automatically migrate
• The data structures between Server/DC and Cloud versions can differ

This is where many teams run into challenges, especially if they need to preserve test traceability and historical context.

If retaining your test data is important, you’ll need to plan the migration carefully. In your case, you may want to explore OpsHub Migration Manager (OMM) that will help move not just Jira issues but also associated test artifacts and relationships into the Cloud environment without downtime or disruption. 

Specifically, this Atlassian marketplace listing on Zephyr Squad (Zephyr Essential now) on DC to Zephyr Squad on Cloud migration may be worth a read. 

Good luck!

[Gor Greyan]

Hi @WW _ 정유정

Thanks for the question.

When you move from Jira Data Center to Jira Cloud, you cannot continue using your existing Zephyr Essential (Data Center) license because Atlassian Marketplace apps are platform-specific, meaning Data Center and Cloud versions are treated as separate products with different licensing models. As a result, you will need to install and purchase the Zephyr Cloud version for your Jira Cloud instance. While your test data can typically be migrated using Atlassian migration tools, the license itself cannot be transferred.

[WW _ 정유정]

Thank you for your kind reply.

[Gor Greyan]

Dear @WW _ 정유정

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Have a good day.