Backups are your safety net for WordPress. With a recent backup you can recover from a bad update, a hack, or a simple mistake in minutes. This guide covers what to back up, how to do it, and how to restore.
What to back up #
- Files: your themes, plugins, and uploads.
- Database: your content, settings, and, for shops, orders.
A complete backup includes both, because one without the other cannot fully restore your site.
Ways to back up WordPress #
- A backup plugin (easiest): schedules automatic backups and can store them off-site, and restores with a click.
- Your hosting backups: use the backup tools in your control panel to create and download copies.
- Manual: download your files and export the database via phpMyAdmin.
How often to back up #
- Active blogs and business sites: daily.
- Online stores: daily at least, ideally more often.
- Always take an extra backup before major changes.
Restoring from a backup #
- If you used a backup plugin, use its restore function and select the backup.
- For a manual restore, upload your files and import the database, then check wp-config.php.
- Clear caches and test the site.
Follow the 3-2-1 rule #
Keep three copies of your data, on two types of storage, with one copy off-site. In practice: your live site, a backup on the server, and a copy stored somewhere else.
Troubleshooting #
- Restore incomplete: make sure both files and database were restored.
- Cannot restore a huge backup: restore files and database separately, or ask support.
Need help? #
Disoh hosting includes backups, and our support team can help you restore if needed. Start a live chat.
