Backing up your WordPress site is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your data. Whether it’s due to a server crash, a security breach, or an accidental mistake, having a recent backup ensures you can restore your site quickly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through setting up automated backups for your WordPress website.
Why backups are essential
- Protects against data loss from hacking, server failures, or human error
- Saves time and effort if your site needs to be restored
- Ensures business continuity and prevents downtime
Choosing a backup solution
There are three main ways to back up a WordPress site:
- Hosting provider backups – Many hosting companies offer automated backups as part of their service. Check with your host to see what’s included and whether they allow easy restores.
- Backup plugins – Plugins provide control over when and where backups are stored. Popular options include UpdraftPlus, BackWPup, and Jetpack Backup.
- Manual backups – You can manually download your site files and database via FTP and phpMyAdmin, but this method requires more effort and is not automated.
How to set up automated backups with a plugin
Install a backup plugin
- In your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Add New
- Search for UpdraftPlus, BackWPup, or another backup plugin of your choice
- Click Install Now, then Activate
Configure backup settings
- Navigate to the plugin’s settings in your WordPress dashboard
- Choose how often to back up (daily, weekly, or monthly) based on how frequently your site changes
- Select what to back up (files, database, or both)
Choose a storage location
- Avoid storing backups only on your web server, as this could be lost if your hosting fails
- Use an external service such as Google Drive, Dropbox, Amazon S3, or OneDrive
- Some plugins allow email backups, but this is only suitable for small sites
Schedule automatic backups
- Set up a schedule to ensure backups run automatically
- For high-traffic or frequently updated sites, daily backups are recommended
- For smaller or static sites, weekly backups may be sufficient
Test your backups
- Occasionally restore a backup to a test site to ensure it works
- Verify that all files and databases are included in the backup
Additional tips for better backup management
- Keep multiple backup copies in case of corruption or failed restores
- Store backups in different locations, such as both cloud storage and a local hard drive
- Delete old backups regularly to avoid exceeding storage limits
- If using a hosting provider’s backup service, confirm how long backups are retained and how easy they are to restore
Setting up automated backups is an essential part of WordPress site management. With the right tools in place, you can ensure your website is protected from unexpected data loss and downtime. Want more WordPress tips? Follow our WordPress 101 series for expert advice every Monday.