how to backup WordPress site manually

Understanding WordPress Site Backup

Backing up your WordPress site manually is crucial for website security and recovery. It ensures you can restore your site in case of data loss, hacking, or accidental changes. Here’s a detailed guide on how to perform a manual backup efficiently.

Step 1: Backup the WordPress Database

The database contains vital information including posts, comments, and the users’ data. To back it up:

1. Log in to the cPanel: Access your hosting account and navigate to cPanel. Look for the ‘Databases’ section and click on ‘phpMyAdmin’.

2. Access phpMyAdmin: Once inside phpMyAdmin, you’ll see a list of databases. Select the database that corresponds to your WordPress site.

3. Export Database: Click on the ‘Export’ tab in phpMyAdmin. Choose the ‘Quick’ method for export and select ‘SQL’ format for the output file. Click ‘Go’. This action downloads a .sql file of your entire database.

Step 2: Backup WordPress Files

WordPress files consist of themes, plugins, uploads, and scripts—all necessary for site operation.

1. Access File Manager: Return to cPanel and open ‘File Manager’. Navigate to the directory where your WordPress is installed (often under public_html).

2. Select Files: In the root directory, select all files and folders unless you have specific custom directories not part of the standard WordPress installation.

3. Compress and Download: Right-click the selected files and choose ‘Compress’. After compression, download the .zip file to your computer by right-clicking on the compressed file and selecting ‘Download’.

Step 3: Use FTP for Backup

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) can also be used for backing up files, offering more control:

1. Setup FTP Client: Use an FTP client such as FileZilla. Enter your host, username, password, and port (typically 21) provided by your hosting service.

2. Connect and Navigate: Once connected, navigate to your WordPress root directory.

3. Download Files: Select all files and folders, then drag and drop them to a local folder on your computer to start the download.

Step 4: Backup Additional Content

Don’t overlook additional content areas:

1. Emails: If you manage emails through your hosting provider, back them up separately, often through the cPanel’s ‘Email’ section.

2. Cron Jobs: Backup cron job configuration if you have custom scheduled tasks setup. This information can usually be viewed and copied from cPanel’s ‘Cron Jobs’ section.

3. .htaccess File: Ensure that you back up the .htaccess file as it contains important server instructions. This is a hidden file, so ensure that your FTP client is configured to show hidden files.

Step 5: Organize and Store Backups

Proper storage and organization are key:

1. Label and Store Safely: Label the backup files by date and content (e.g., Database_2023-01-DD.sql). Store them in multiple locations—cloud storage (like Dropbox, Google Drive), and physical drives.

2. Regular Updates: Regularly update your backup copies after major site updates or periodically (monthly or quarterly, depending on site activity).

Step 6: Test Your Backup

1. Create a Testing Environment: Set up a subdomain or a local server installation where you can test the backup without affecting your live site.

2. Restore Backup: Import your SQL file into a new database and adjust your WordPress configuration file to connect to this database. Unzip your files into the testing environment and browse to the site to ensure everything works as expected.

Bonus Tip: Automated Backup Solutions

While manual backups are beneficial, consider automated solutions for regular backups, such as plugins like UpdraftPlus or VaultPress. These tools provide scheduled backups and easier restoration options—with benefits like differential backups and reduced server load.

Conclusion

Manual backups give you full control over what is backed up and how frequently it is done. By following these meticulous steps, you can ensure your WordPress site remains safe and recoverable, regardless of what comes your way. Keep consistent with your backup routines to safeguard your online presence.