Your WordPress site is the heart of your online presence. Backups are your safety net they protect you from data loss caused by hacking, server crashes, plugin errors, or accidental deletions. In this guide, you will learn how to backup your WordPress site using different methods, so you can always restore it when needed.
Why Backups Are Important
Security: Recover from malware or hacking attacks.
Error Recovery: Fix site issues caused by updates or human mistakes.
Business Continuity: Keep your business running with minimal downtime.
Peace of Mind: Know that your site can be restored anytime.
What Does a WordPress Backup Include?
A full WordPress backup typically has:
Website Files – Themes, plugins, media uploads, and WordPress core files.
Database – Stores posts, pages, comments, settings, and user accounts.
You need both to fully restore your site.
Backup Methods
Method 1: Backup via cPanel (Manual Method)
Step 1: Log in to cPanel
Access your hosting account and open cPanel.
Step 2: Backup Files
Go to File Manager → Locate the public_html folder.
Compress the folder into a .zip file and download it to your computer.
Step 3: Backup Database
In cPanel, go to phpMyAdmin.
Select your site’s database, click Export, choose Quick method, and download the .sql file.
Result: You now have a complete backup saved locally.
Method 2: Backup Using a WordPress Plugin (Easiest for Beginners)
Popular backup plugins:
UpdraftPlus (Free + Paid)
Duplicator
All-in-One WP Migration
Example with UpdraftPlus:
Install and activate UpdraftPlus from Plugins → Add New.
Go to Settings → UpdraftPlus Backups.
Click Backup Now.
Choose whether to store locally or connect to cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.).
Method 3: Backup from WordPress Manager in cPanel
If your host offers Softaculous WordPress Manager:
Log in to cPanel → WordPress Manager.
Locate your site and click Backup.
Wait for the backup to complete — you can later download it from the Backups section.
Best Practices for WordPress Backups
Backup regularly — daily for busy sites, weekly for low-traffic sites.
Store backups offsite — in cloud storage or an external drive.
Test backups — make sure they work before you need them.
Automate the process — to avoid forgetting.
Backing up your WordPress account is not just a technical chore it’s essential for website survival. Whether you choose cPanel, a WordPress plugin, or both, make sure backups are part of your website maintenance routine.
By securing both your files and database, you can restore your website at any time and keep your online presence safe from unexpected disasters.