Create a backup in cPanel

Choose the right backup

Identify the data you will change. WordPress needs both its website files and database. A full cPanel backup captures a broad set of data, but a regular cPanel user cannot restore the entire archive through the standard restore interface.

Check free disk space before generating a backup on the server. Backups can contain passwords, email and customer data, so store them securely.

Create and download the backup

1. Open Backup Wizard or Backup in cPanel, if available.
2. Select Back Up and the scope you need.
3. For a partial backup, download the home directory and the site's database separately. Check the database name in the application's configuration without exposing its password.
4. For a full backup, choose an allowed destination and start generation. Wait for completion before downloading.
5. Download the completed file to your computer or another secure storage location.

Check recoverability

Check the file size, timestamp and completed download. Record what the backup includes and excludes. Test restoration in a separate environment when possible.

Do not keep the only backup on the same service as the original data. Do not delete a known working copy before checking the new one. Any provider backup schedule and retention period depend on the service; verify them before relying on a particular recovery point.