Unlocking the Mysteries of WordPress Backups from cPanel

Have you ever wondered why WordPress is so widely used and popular among content management systems (CMS)? With over 30% of all websites on the internet being powered by it, WordPress must be doing something right. One of the key elements of using WordPress is making regular backups of your data, which can save your website from devastating data loss in case of server failure or other catastrophes. But how does one even go about backing up their WordPress website from cPanel? Let’s dive into the perplexing world of WordPress backups.

Step 1: Finding Your Way to cPanel

The first and most critical step to backing up your WordPress website from cPanel is finding your way to cPanel. If you’re unfamiliar, cPanel is a web-based control panel that most web hosts provide to customers to manage their hosting account’s ins and outs. Logging into cPanel requires your cPanel login details that were provided to you when you signed up for the hosting account. Accessing cPanel is simple! All you need to do is type in your domain name, followed by “/cpanel.”

Step 2: Searching for the Backup Wizard

Upon logging into your cPanel account, you will be presented with an overwhelming dashboard that contains tons of tools and features. Finding the backup wizard is crucial to backing up your WordPress website. Typically, the backup wizard is found in the “Files” section of cPanel. If you look closely, you’ll come across a section that goes by the names “Backup” or “Backup Wizard.” Sometimes the link to access the backup wizard says, “Generate/Download a Full Website Backup.”

Step 3: Determining Your Desired Backup Destination

The next step in backing up your WordPress website is determining your desired backup destination. Your website can either be backed up to your home directory or a remote FTP server. It’s highly recommended to backup your website to a remote FTP server to add an extra layer of security in case your home directory is in danger. Inputting your FTP login details and server address is necessary for remote FTP server backup.

Step 4: Selecting Your Backup Type

After determining your desired backup destination, it’s time to choose your backup type. There are two main types of backups: full backup and partial backup. Full backup saves your entire website, including files, databases, and settings, while partial backup allows you to choose which files and databases to back up. Going with full backup is preferred for convenience and overall safety.

Step 5: Configuring Your Backup Options

Configuring your backup options is the next step in the backup wizard. You will adjust backup file type, compression level, and backup frequency according to website requirements. Most times, default options will suffice, but be sure to make changes to fit specific needs and preferences.

Step 6: Starting Your Backup

Once you’ve come this far, it’s time to start your backup! Click on the “Generate Backup” button to initiate, keeping in mind that backup time varies according to website size and destination. After completion, save the backup file in a safe location such as your computer or cloud storage platform for easy access.

In Conclusion

Backing up your WordPress website from cPanel is an essential step in website management that ensures safety and security during emergencies. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can rest easy knowing your website’s valuable data is backed up and saved. Keep your website free from disasters by regularly backing up at intervals that work best for you.