A WordPress backup needs two parts: the files (especially wp-content) and the database. Either on its own isn’t enough.
Option 1: Softaculous backup
- Open Extra Features then Softaculous Auto Installer and go to your installations.
- Select the backup option for the WordPress install.
- Include files and database, and create the backup.
- Download it from the backups list.
Option 2: a backup plugin
A reputable backup plugin can schedule backups and send them straight to cloud storage such as Google Drive or Dropbox. That’s the best option for regular automatic backups, because they leave the server without you doing anything.
Option 3: manual files and database
- Database: export it in phpMyAdmin. How to export a database (backup with phpMyAdmin)
- Files: in System Info & Files then File Manager, compress the WordPress folder and download the archive. How to download files from your hosting account
Where backups belong
Not only on the server. A backup stored in your hosting account is lost with the account, fills your 3GB, and is no help if the site is hacked and the attacker deletes it.
- Download or send backups to cloud storage
- Delete old backup archives from the server once downloaded
- Keep several dated copies, not just the latest
How often
Back up before every update, and on a schedule that matches how often content changes: weekly for most small sites, daily for shops.
Test a restore
Restore to a staging subdomain once, so you know the backup works before you need it. Using a subdomain as a staging site
Everything in this guide works on Traxio’s WordPress hosting: 30 days free, then £0.99 a month.