Backups cPanel

How to Create Website Backups in cPanel

A backup taken five minutes before disaster is worth more than any plugin. Here's how cPanel's backup tools work.

Whether you're about to update a plugin, switch themes, or just want peace of mind, cPanel's backup tools make it simple to snapshot your entire account.

1. Open the Backup Wizard

From cPanel's home screen, click Backup Wizard under the Files section.

2. Create a full or partial backup

Choose Backup, then select either a Full Backup (files, databases, and email together) or a partial backup of just one part, such as your home directory or a single database.

3. Choose a download destination

cPanel lets you download the backup directly to your computer, or generate it to a remote destination like FTP if one is configured for your account.

4. Use JetBackup for scheduled backups

If your Vikalink plan includes JetBackup, open it from cPanel's home screen to browse automatic daily, weekly, and monthly snapshots without setting anything up manually.

Key takeaway: Keep at least one backup copy off your hosting account entirely — downloading a periodic full backup to your own computer protects you even in the rare case your whole account needs restoring.

5. Restore a full backup

In the Backup Wizard, choose Restore, select the type of backup you're restoring, and upload the file. cPanel will handle putting everything back in place.

6. Restore a single file with JetBackup

JetBackup lets you browse into a past snapshot and restore just one file or folder, without touching the rest of your site — useful for accidentally deleted images or pages.

7. Keep backups tidy

Old backup files take up disk space if downloaded to your hosting account. Periodically remove ones you no longer need from File Manager to free up storage.