Zoombie
Published
2 min read
A backup is the cheapest insurance a website owner can buy, but only if it actually works when you need it. Many sites have backups that were never tested.
Back up files and database together
A complete WordPress backup includes both files and the database. One without the other leaves you with half a site, so check that your tool covers both.
Store copies off the server
Backups stored only on the same server fail in exactly the situations you need them most. Keep at least one copy elsewhere, and protect access to it. This habit matters as much as the steps in securing a WordPress website.
Test a restore before you trust it
Restore a backup to a staging copy at least once, and confirm the site works. A backup you have never restored is a hope, not a plan. If you later move hosts, the same care applies when you migrate a website to a new host.
Conclusion
Back up both files and database, store a copy off the server, and test a restore. That routine turns a disaster into a short interruption.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I back up WordPress?
Daily for active sites, and before every update or change. The busier the site, the more often it needs a backup.
Do I need a backup plugin?
Not always, but a reliable tool makes scheduled backups and restores far easier than manual copying.
Where should backups live?
Off the server, in a separate storage account. On-server copies are a useful extra, not the plan itself.
What should I check after a restore?
Check the homepage, key pages, forms, and login, and confirm the content matches what you expected.
