What a backup is and why it matters

Introduction

A backup is a copy of your data saved so it can be recovered if something goes wrong.

In hosting, a backup can help you restore a website after an error, an accidental deletion, a failed update, an infection or a loss of information.

What a backup is

A backup is a safety copy of files, databases, emails or settings.

Its purpose is to allow recovery if the original data is lost, damaged or compromised.

What a hosting backup may include

A hosting backup may include:

• Website files.
• Images and documents.
• MySQL databases.
• Hosted email accounts.
• Panel settings.
• Subdomains and folders.
• Installed scripts or applications.

A complete website normally needs both files and a database.

Why it is important to have backups

Backups protect you against:

1. Accidental deletions.
2. Failed updates.
3. Hacks or malware.
4. Configuration errors.
5. Database failures.
6. Problems during migration.
7. Changes you want to undo.

Without a copy, recovering the website may be much more difficult or even impossible.

Types of backups

Full backup

It includes the whole account or all the data needed to restore the complete site.

Partial backup

It includes only one part, such as a database, a folder or emails.

Incremental backup

It saves the changes made since the previous copy. This helps optimize space and time.

Local backup

It is stored in the same infrastructure or in a nearby environment.

Remote backup

It is stored in another location, adding protection if a local problem occurs.

When to make a manual backup

Create a copy before:

• Updating WordPress, Prestashop or Joomla.
• Changing plugins, themes or modules.
• Editing website files.
• Importing data.
• Modifying a database.
• Migrating the website.
• Cleaning malware.
• Deleting old folders.

Good practices for your backups

• Keep copies outside the hosting account.
• Use names with dates.
• Keep several versions.
• Verify that the copy downloaded correctly.
• Do not leave public backups inside public_html.
• Protect copies that contain sensitive data.
• Test restores if your website is critical.

Useful tips

• An old copy is better than none.
• For WordPress, save both files and the database.
• For online stores, be careful with recent orders.
• Automatic backups do not replace your own manual copies.
• Review your copies before making important changes.

Common problems

I only have the database

That is not enough to restore the whole website. You also need files, images, plugins and themes.

I only have the files

The website may not work if the database is missing.

The backup is very large

That is normal if the website has many images, emails or files. You can make partial backups if you only need one part.

Frequently asked questions

Does a backup stop me from being hacked

No. A backup does not prevent the attack, but it helps you recover the website afterward.

How often should I make backups

It depends on how much your website changes. An active store needs more frequent copies than a static website.

Where should I keep my backups

In a location outside the hosting account, such as your computer or secure storage.

Does miHosting create backups

miHosting performs automatic backups as a protection measure, but it is still recommended to keep your own copies as well.

Conclusion

A backup is a basic security tool. It lets you recover your website after errors, attacks or data loss. The ideal approach is to combine automatic hosting backups with your own manual copies before any important change.