How to Backup Your WordPress Website: Complete Beginner Guide

One of the most important steps in managing a website is learning how to backup your WordPress website. A proper backup strategy protects you from data loss caused by hacks, crashes, or user errors.

This guide explains both plugin-based and manual methods to ensure your website is safe. Want step-by-step help? Join the WordPress Website Mastery Course for expert support.

Why Website Backups Are Essential

WordPress sites face risks like:

• Plugin or theme conflicts
• Server outages
• Malware attacks
• Mistakes during updates

A complete backup allows you to restore your site instantly, without losing files, data, or design.

How Often Should You Backup?

• Dynamic websites: daily or real-time backups
• Informational sites: weekly backups
• Always backup before major changes or updates

Method 1: Use a Backup Plugin

Plugins offer the simplest and safest way to back up your site.

Recommended Backup Plugins

1. UpdraftPlus – Free and reliable with cloud storage support
2. Jetpack Backup – Real-time backup ideal for stores
3. BlogVault – Premium solution with offsite backup and staging
4. BackupBuddy – Scheduled backups with restore options

Learn more about must-have plugins here:
Top 10 Plugins for Every WordPress Site

How to Use UpdraftPlus (Step-by-Step)

1. Go to Plugins → Add New, search UpdraftPlus
2. Install and activate the plugin
3. Navigate to Settings → UpdraftPlus Backups
4. Click Backup Now
5. Set up automated backup schedule and connect Google Drive or Dropbox

Method 2: Manual Backup (Advanced)

If you prefer control, you can back up manually.

Steps:

1. Backup Files:
   • Use FTP or cPanel File Manager
   • Download entire public_html directory
2. Backup Database:
   • Access phpMyAdmin
   • Export your WordPress database as .sql

Manual backups are best for developers or those with server experience.

What Should a Full Backup Include?

• WordPress core files
• Plugins and themes
• Media files (uploads)
• WordPress database (posts, settings, users)

A full backup ensures you can fully restore your website.

Where to Store Backups

Never store backups on the same server. Use offsite storage like:

• Google Drive
• Dropbox
• Amazon S3
• External hard drives or secure cloud vaults

UpdraftPlus and other tools support automated cloud storage.

Best Practices for Backups

• Automate backups to avoid forgetting
• Keep at least three recent backup versions
• Test restore functionality regularly
• Backup before theme, plugin, or core updates

Also read:
How to Secure Your WordPress Website

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to backup your WordPress website is a basic yet vital part of managing your online presence. It prevents data loss and saves hours of rework during unexpected events.

Need help building or protecting your site?

Join the WordPress Website Mastery Course to get everything from setup to safety covered in one place.