Can settings from ver OPNsense 21.7.8 be migrated to new version?

[seamus]

I installed OPNsense on my server in Jan 2018 - best I can recall. I upgraded fairly regularly until I got to ver 21.7.8. I stopped there because I was concerned about migrating to the "new" version, and because I began traveling extensively. My OPNsense firewall (OPNsense + SuperMicro Intel 4 core 1.8 GHz Atom CPU) has run 24x7 for many years now with virtually no maintenance or administration! The only time I even log into the FW is when I need to check the DHCP logs. My ISP is Google fiber - also very reliable. My family used the Internet continuously while I was on travel, and never had an incident. All this is background to say that I'm very pleased with this setup!

However, after 8+ years I have some concerns re my hardware. Late last year, I attempted installation of a newer version of OPNsense on a slightly newer server that has seen very little use - I planned to use it as a "cold backup" system. Unfortunately, my installation attempt was unsuccessful. 

I am now *seriously* considering the future. I definitely want to stick with OPNsense, but feel that I must upgrade my hardware. 8+ years ago I was "active", and enjoyed tinkering in such projects. Today, I'm looking for a solution that doesn't involve "starting over", and is less challenging for my aging brain  :P  All of that said, I have a few questions:

1. At one time (and perhaps still today) OPNsense allowed one to make a "configuration backup" to an XML file. I still have several of these backup files - several from 2022, the latest from June 2025. Can I apply these "backup configuration" files to a new version of OPNsense?

2. As I said earlier, I am motivated to upgrade my hardware. It's my understanding that if I bought a hardware server, OPNsense would come pre-installed. I wonder if I could send my "backup configuration" files to Decisio (?), and have them "pre-configure" my server?

3. As I read the specifications, it seems the DEC677 would meet my needs. My Google Fiber service is rated at 2 Gbps, and there are 3-4 fairly active users. We have a "streaming service" for movies, a "cellular extender box" and several (too many) computers laying about. Could someone "take a stab" at confirming the DEC677 would be sufficient?

That's all I can think of at present. Thanks in advance for your help!

Best Rgds,
~S