A backup is a saved copy of your website you can return to if something breaks. Updates, plugins, human error, or a hacked site can all cause damage, and a recent backup is the fastest way to recover.
What to back up
A complete website backup has two parts:
- Website files: your themes, plugins, images, and code.
- Database: your pages, posts, settings, and store data.
You need both to restore a fully working site.
Create a backup
The simplest option is the backup tool in your Hostbox dashboard, which captures files and database together.
Open File Manager and download your website files to your computer.
Use the database export option to save a copy of your database alongside your files.
Keep at least one copy offsite, such as on your own computer or cloud storage, so a problem on the server never takes your only backup with it.
Keep a regular schedule
Back up on a schedule that matches how often your site changes. A busy store may need daily backups, while a simple brochure site might be fine with weekly ones. Always take a backup right before big changes like updates or a redesign.
Restore your website
When you need to roll back, restore the same two parts. If you used the dashboard backup tool, choose the backup you want and restore it. If you backed up manually, upload your files through File Manager and import the database export back into your database.
Restoring overwrites your current site with the backup. Confirm you have the right backup before you proceed.
If a restore looks risky, contact us at /support before you start, and browse more guides at /knowledgebase.