How do I back up my WordPress site?

by · Published · Updated

Applies to: WordPress.org (self-hosted)
Last updated: May 2025

Problem

You want to protect your WordPress site from data loss due to hacks, server crashes, plugin conflicts, or accidental changes—but you’re not sure how to create and manage backups.

Solution

Backing up your WordPress site involves saving two key components:

  1. Database – stores posts, pages, users, settings, etc.
  2. Files – themes, plugins, media uploads, and WordPress core files

You can back up your site using a plugin, your web host’s tools, or manually via FTP and phpMyAdmin.

Option 1: Use a Backup Plugin (Recommended)

Popular Backup Plugins:

  • UpdraftPlus (free + premium)
  • BackWPup
  • WPVivid Backup
  • Jetpack Backup (paid)

Example: Back Up with UpdraftPlus

  1. Go to Plugins > Add New
  2. Search for UpdraftPlus
  3. Click Install Now, then Activate
  4. Go to Settings > UpdraftPlus Backups

From here, you can:

  • Click Backup Now for a manual backup
  • Set up automatic backups under the Settings tab
    • Choose backup frequency (daily, weekly, etc.)
    • Choose what to back up (files, database, or both)
    • Select remote storage (Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive, etc.)

Click Save Changes

Option 2: Use Your Hosting Provider

Many web hosts offer built-in backup solutions, often included in their dashboard or control panel.

  • Check your hosting account for options like:
    • Daily backups
    • Manual snapshot backups
    • One-click restore

Examples: SiteGround, Bluehost, Kinsta, and WP Engine all offer built-in backup systems.

Note: Always verify that your hosting backups include both database and files, and that you can restore them easily.

Option 3: Manual Backup (Advanced)

A. Back Up Files

  1. Connect to your site using FTP or your host’s File Manager
  2. Download everything from /public_html/ or /www/

B. Back Up Database

  1. Log in to phpMyAdmin via your hosting control panel
  2. Select your WordPress database
  3. Click Export > Quick > SQL
  4. Click Go to download your database backup

Best Practices

  • Store backups in a remote location (not on the same server as your website)
  • Automate backups on a schedule (daily or weekly)
  • Keep at least one recent local copy in case of emergency
  • Regularly test restore functionality to ensure backups are usable

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