301: Backing up WordPress
Written by Tim SissonEvery WordPress website has two basic parts, the database and the files. It is important that you backup everything, including your website (files) and your WordPress database. InMotion Hosting recommends that you maintain your own backups on a regular basis. To learn more about how to maintain a full cpanel backup that includes all your files, databases, and emails please read: Backing Up your cPanel
If you do not wish to perform the recommended full cPanel backup, you have the option of backing up the files and database separately. First, let's cover how to back up your website files. This is simple especially if you are familar with FTP clients. First, you will need to log into your account with an FTP client. Then you will need to select the files on your server to download. Next, you will download the files onto your local computer for storage. For more information on backing up your files using FTP please read: How to create a backup using FTP
Next, you will need to export your content using the "export" feature in WordPress. Maintaining a copy of your content is important since your database is where all of your content is stored. WordPress makes exporting your database content easy. First, you'll need to log into the WordPress admin section of your website. Then in the left column menu, select the "Tools" option.
Select the "Export" option, then select "All Content". Once you have done this, select "Download Export File"
This will open a window where you can then download the exported file, which is in XML format.
The Data Backup feature mentioned is from our standard backups that run every 24-36 hours on all shared/VPS accounts under 10GB. These require the support team to access the backup servers and pull the data.
The backups mentioned here via Wordpress or via the cPanel are done by you and can be restored at any time. The files would just need to be uploaded by you to the account so support can access the right files and replace them.
If your website were damaged, we could certainly pull any data that was included in the last backup. Depending on the time of the data loss or damage, it may or may not be there. Our backups keep only the data from the last 24 hours or so. That is why we recommend additional backups made by yourself.
Best Regards,
Scott M
It's not clear if we have to do a partial back up (of the directory and the database), AND a backup via FTP. If we use the Backup Wizard to backup the individual components doesn't that also backup our content files in Wordpress?
Thank you,
GinaR
If you do the both partials (home directory and database) you will have backed up the entire wordpress site. You will want to ensure you use FTP to download the backups to your own computer for safe keeping, however.
Best Regards,
Scott M
Thanks for responding to my query. One more thing. When I used the backup wizard, I saved the directory and database files in a folder on my PC. Why do I need to use FTP to download the same backups to my computer?
Thank you,
GinaR
Saving it to your local computer is the same end result.
I was not certain if the backup gave the opportunity saved to your account on the server as the full backup does.
Best Regards,
Scott M
Latest Questions
Need more Help?
Search
Ask the Community!
Current Customers
| Chat: | Click to Chat Now | E-mail: | support@InMotionHosting.com |
|---|---|---|---|
| Call: | 888-321-HOST (4678) | Ticket: | Submit a Support Ticket |
What is the difference between that backup and the various backups recommended in this article and others? If my website were to be lost or damaged, would InMotion be able to restore it? Or am I responsible for that?
Thanks!