How to Backup a WordPress Site

Why Backups are Needed

Backup is a backup copy of all site files (content and database). When creating a backup, you get an archive with data that can be stored on a local disk, server, or cloud storage. Backups are used to solve the following tasks:

for seamless site transfer to another domain or hosting,
as a reinsurance if the owner forgot to renew the domain or hosting,
to quickly restore a website in case of an error,
With large-scale changes to the site (architecture, design), in order to roll back to the previous version if something goes wrong.

In many cases, automatic backups will avail. But if they are urgently needed or a specific version is required (for example, the site is updated frequently), it is better to take care of the backups yourself. There are two ways to make a backup: “the old fashioned way” (manually copies the files and imports the database via phpmyadmin) and using plugins. In this article, we will look at how to make a copy of a WordPress site in the second way. Read More: y2mate com

WordPress Backup

WordPress has over 1,500 backup plugins:

Functionality and usability are different. Some weigh a lot and load the admin panel. Others do not allow you to restore a site from a downloaded backup on a free plan.

We have chosen the golden one, wordpress backup plugins that are quite popular, easy to use, and have enough functionality in the free version.

WordPress Backup Plugins

1. All-in-One WP Migration

All-in-One WP Migration is a simple plugin that allows you to backup your entire WordPress site, including not only the media and database, but also the theme and plugins used. In order to use it, you do not need technical knowledge, just create a backup, then download it to your computer and upload it to the administrative panel (import a copy).

Features of the free version

When restoring a site from a backup, there is a limit of 512 MB. If a copy of your site weighs more, the system will not be able to import it correctly. Get the help of technical support if something goes wrong, or read the developers tips.
You can store an unlimited number of backups.
There is a tool for searching and replacing data in databases. For example, if the site is transferred to another domain.

Features of the paid version

The maximum size of uploaded backups is not limited.
You can store backups not only on a PC, but also via FTP, in cloud storages (Dropbox, Amazon, OneDrive, etc.).

Thus, the plugin is suitable for small sites that are rarely updated (for example: portfolios, landing pages, business cards).

2. BackWPup

BackWPup is a more flexible backup and task scheduling plugin. Note that you will have to use phpMyAdmin to restore backups.

Features of the free version

You can create recurring tasks and update backups. This feature will be useful for sites that have a lot of updated information (forum, online store).
You can save backups not only to your computer, but also to cloud storage or FTP.
Detailed error reporting if any occur while creating a backup.

Features of the paid version

Full automatic recovery from backup.
More cloud systems where you can save a copy (Google Drive, OneDrive, etc.).
Encryption of backups for greater security. A full comparison with the free version can be viewed on the page.

Thus, the plugin will suit more technically knowledge site owners and also if you want backups to be created periodically without your participation.

3. Updraft plus – Backup/Restore

UpdraftPlus WordPress Backup Plugin is a popular backup and restores plugin.

Features of the free version

You can create a backup and restore the site from it in a couple of clicks.
You can transfer backups to Dropbox, Google Drive, FTP, by email.
You can schedule a backup.

Features of the paid version

There are incremental backups.
Ability to restore backups made by other plugins.
Website transfer and cloning.
This plugin is versatile and quite easy to use.