Almost every web developer knows just how tedious and stressful it is to attempt recover a website that has disappeared into thin air without a backup. Data loss can result from an array of factors. For some, it can come from accidentally deleting a file. For others, it may result from a computer glitch or system corruption. For yet others, it is brought by a hacker or a virus. In any case, data loss is never a welcome nor an expected visitor.
As a result, it is recommended that developers create a backup at least once a month. However, because everyday concerns can often bump backups off the priority list, the only time some people ever think of them is when they’re sitting in front of the computer, desperately searching for lost files.
This is why it is important to set aside a fixed time every month or so to create backups. Whether you are an ordinary user saving word documents or a savvy web developer managing websites and complex databases, it is always well worth the time spent. In addition, it is important to back up before implementing major design changes or software updates as errors usually occur at this time.
Fortunately for us, cPanel has a built-in, easy-to-use tool for creating a neat backup file that contains a copy of all your files and databases. Full backups such as these take up more time and hassle than, for instance, backing up only your databases. However, they do ensure that in case of any data loss, a more complete copy of your website is available. If you prefer partial backups, you may do those too, but do also make full ones on a regular basis.
Here’s a run-through of how to make a full backup on cPanel:
First of all, login to cPanel. Look for the heading “Files” and under that, click on the Backups icon. This should look like a silver compact disc and tray.
And this is the old look:
In the next screen, select “Home Directory” as the backup destination. This will make the file easier to find later. Below that, you will find that you have the option to receive an email notification when it completes. If you would like to receive this notification, enter your email in the box. Otherwise, you may select the radio button before “Do not send email notification of backup.”
Once this is set, you may click the “Generate Backup” button below. This begins the backup process, which usually takes a few minutes or longer, depending on the size of your files.
This process creates a compressed file that begins with “backup” followed by the date and can be found in your home directory.
Download this file and keep it in a safe, organized folder that is reserved specifically for backups and is off the server. Leaving your backup in your file manager is pretty much equivalent to putting all your eggs in one basket. You don’t want to lose your data only to find out that the backup has been lost along with it.
You could see also: How to backup my hosting account?
Once you’re done, make sure to set your calendar for the next backup! A lot of changes can happen over the next month, so you want to make sure you can save those too.
This short process takes only a few minutes, but it will save you a lot of worry and effort when things take an unexpected turn. If you find yourself an unexpected victim of data loss, you don’t have to scratch your head while chatting with a support person or run some dodgy recovery software. All you have to do is bring back out that small, unobtrusive file for recovery.
You could read also: Problems with restoring my backup