This article covers how to backup a website in cPanel, as well as how to restore a backup copy of the site. Backing up your website is a vital part of maintaining its security. Whether you face system failures, security breaches, coding errors, or compatibility issues, having a reliable backup can save you from potential data loss and downtime.

Domains.co.za offers daily website backups with all Web Hosting plans, ensuring your data is always protected. This guide provides essential information on the importance of backups and how to back up your website manually using cPanel.

How to Backup a Website in cPanel

This demo assumes you’ve already logged in to your Domains.co.za Account and are in the cPanel Dashboard:

1. In Tools, scroll down to Files, then click Backup Wizard.

2. From the options available, under Backup or Restore click the Back Up button.

3. Click Generate Backup to create an archive of website files and configurations.

IMPORTANT:

A full backup can ONLY be used to keep a copy on your server or desktop, or when moving your account to another server – it CANNOT be used for Restore Back Up through the cPanel interface.

Please contact our Domains.co.za Support Team for assistance.

4. A pop-up will confirm your request and notify you when the backup is ready.

5. You will receive an email notification when the backup is complete; click the link to confirm.

Download a Copy of the Backup

1. After you receive email confirmation that your back has been generated, head back cPanel scroll down to Files, then click Backup Wizard again

2. You will see a list of Backups Available for Download, including your newly generated backup.

3. Choose the backup you want to download and click on it. The download of your backup file will begin after you have selected a folder.

4. Once complete, a compressed file will appear in the Folder that you selected.

Restore a Backup Copy

5. To restore this backup in cPanel, go back to the Backup Wizard under Files in cPanel. Under Back Up or Restore click Restore

6. Under Select Restore Type click Home Directory

7. Under Restore, complete the final step by clicking Choose File

8. Locate the file on your computer and click Open

9. Next, click Upload and once complete, select the backup file and your website will be restored to the previous backup state

This is the end of the tutorial. You now know how to create a backup with cPanel, and restore files from a backup of it.

DISCLAIMER:

Any pricing reflected on images is for demonstration/reference purposes only, and does not constitute actual pricing. E&OE.

Additional Information

Reasons to Backup A Website in cPanel

System Failures & Security Breaches

Backups are essential for recovering lost or damaged files. In the event of a system failure or a security breach, having a website backup ensures you can prevent data loss and restore your site to a previous state where all the data was intact.

Coding Errors & Site Updates

Mistakes happen, and backups are invaluable for getting your website up and running again if issues arise from coding errors. Carelessness during site updates can also cause problems, and having a backup allows for quick recovery.

Plugins, Malware, & Website Testing

Regular backups are critical due to potential compatibility issues with plugins, malware infections, hacker attacks, and the need to create a testing version of your website. Ensuring your site is backed up regularly protects against these risks.

Domains.co.za Daily Backups

Daily website backups are included with all Domains.co.za Web Hosting plans. If you prefer to back up your website manually, you will find the process straightforward and user-friendly.

Login to Domains.co.za Account

1. Go to the Domains.co.za website Account Login page.

2. Enter your Email and Password.

3. Then click the Sign In button.

Access cPanel via your Domains.co.za Account

4. On the right of the Dashboard under the Manage Account menu, click Manage Services on the drop-down menu and select your Hosting plan, our example uses Web Hosting. (refer image above).

5. Click Manage next to the website domain you wish to access in cPanel.

6. The Product Information section will display – click the Login button next to Control Panel – cPanel.