Every 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.