Hacks, bad updates and human mistakes happen. A recent backup turns a disaster into a ten-minute fix.
What to back up
- Website files (themes, plugins, uploads)
- The database (your posts, settings, orders)
- Email, if you use it on your hosting
- DNS records (note them down)
How to back up in cPanel
- Log in to cPanel and open Backup.
- Download a full account backup, or download the home directory and databases separately.
- Save the file to your computer and cloud storage.
How often?
- Static site: after every change.
- Blog: weekly.
- Store or active site: daily.
The 3-2-1 rule
Keep 3 copies, on 2 different types of storage, with 1 copy off-site. Do not rely only on your host's backups.
Test your restore
A backup you never tested may not work. Restore it on a test domain once in a while.
Before risky changes
Always back up before updating WordPress, changing themes or migrating. Also read website security tips.
Types of backups
- Full backup: everything in the account, ideal before moving or major changes.
- Partial backup: only the home directory, a database or email settings.
- Incremental backup: only changes since the last backup, saves space.
- Manual vs automatic: automatic ones are consistent; manual ones are good right before risky changes.
Where to store backups
- Your computer, in a clearly dated folder.
- Cloud storage you control, with two-factor authentication.
- An external drive for important business sites.
Never leave the only copy on the same server as the website. If the server account is compromised or deleted, the backup goes with it.
How to restore a WordPress site manually
- Create a fresh database and user in cPanel.
- Upload your files to public_html.
- Import the database dump in phpMyAdmin.
- Update wp-config.php with the database details.
- Check pages, media, forms and login.
Backup mistakes to avoid
- Never testing a restore.
- Keeping backups forever without labels, then not knowing which is current.
- Forgetting the database, and only copying files.
- Storing backups in a public folder where anyone can download them.
Create a simple backup routine
Pick a schedule, write it down, set a calendar reminder and keep the last several versions. Review it every few months. A boring routine saves projects.
FAQ
Does my hosting include backups?
Ask your provider what is included and how restores work. Never depend on a single copy.
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