Why should you take care of regular WordPress backups? Discover the key aspects of ensuring your data is fully secure.
I offer comprehensive services related to the administration and optimisation of WordPress websites. You can check my qualifications and experience on the subpage WordPress specialist. You are also welcome to call me to discuss the details of our cooperation at the following number (+48) 579 066 987.
Why is a WordPress backup crucial?
One of the key aspects of proper website management is WordPress backup. This process protects your data from a variety of threats such as server failures, hacking attacks and even human error. Regular backups allow you to recover the full functionality of your site in the event of any failure, minimising downtime and loss.
Best practices for WordPress backup
To ensure your data is completely safe and protected, you need to follow a few basic rules. Here are the key elements of an effective backup:
- Regularity: Back up at least once a week and preferably daily.
- Automation: Use of plug-ins or external services to automate the backup process.
- Storage in multiple locations: Backups should be stored on a server, in the cloud and on external media.
The best backup plug-ins
In the WordPress world, we can find many tools to help automate the backup process. Here are some of the most popular plugins:
- UpdraftPlus: One of the most popular choices, with which you can easily and quickly automate your backup.
- BackWPup: A plug-in that allows you to schedule regular backups and store them in various locations such as Dropbox, S3 or Google Drive.
- VaultPress: A solution offered by Automattic, dedicated to more advanced users and companies.
Manual WordPress backup
While automation is convenient, it is useful to know and understand the backup process manually. First of all, it consists of two key elements: the database and the site files:
- Database: Use the phpMyAdmin tool to export the entire database to an SQL file.
- Site files: Use an FTP client such as FileZilla to download a copy of all files to your local hard drive.
Storage of backups in different locations
Providing multiple backups in different locations is absolutely key. Never rely solely on one storage location. Here are some recommendations:
- Clouds: Dropbox, Google Drive, Amazon S3 are great places to store external backups.
- External servers: If you have access to an FTP server, use it for additional backup storage.
- External media: Regular transfer of copies to external disks or DVDs/CDs.
Data recovery from backup
Even the best backup strategies are worthless if you do not know how to restore your data. It is worth familiarising yourself with the disaster recovery procedure.
1 Restore the database: If you are using phpMyAdmin, find the "Import" option and load the SQL file. Ensure that the "restore" subpage is correctly maintained with step-by-step instructions for your users.
2 Restore files: Open your FTP tool, like FileZilla, and upload files from the backup to the WordPress default directory on the server.
Problems with backup? Contact us!
I am here to provide full support and advice on the creation of a WordPress backup. If you have questions or need assistance, please call me on (+48) 579 066 987. I provide individual support and dedicated solutions tailored to your needs.
If you are interested in obtaining more detailed information on WordPress optimisation, I invite you to read the article Creating unique pages with the Astra WordPress template.