Keep your own backup of your website files and database, stored outside the hosting account. A recent backup is the fastest way to recover from a hack, a bad update or a deleted file.
Overview
Backups are copies of your website files and database. You can create and download them from cPanel, and store them on your computer or a cloud drive.
Why it happens
- Updates, plugins and mistakes can break a site at any time.
- A backup kept only on the same server can be lost with the server.
What it means
Treat your own backups as the main safety net. Make one before every major change and keep copies in a separate place.
How to fix it
- In cPanel open Backup and download a full account or home directory backup.
- Download the MySQL databases separately.
- For WordPress, also use a backup plugin set to save to a cloud drive: cPanel backup and restore.
- Store copies on your computer and in cloud storage, and test a restore at least once.
- Take a fresh backup before updates, migrations and design changes.
Still need help? Get support
Open a support ticket
A ticket is the best way to get this fixed: it keeps your details, and we reply in the ticket.
Prefer to talk? Call 0758 309 999 (fastest line). If that line is busy, call 0753 930 000 (longer wait).
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- Hosting Disk Space or Inode Limit Reached: How to Free Space
- Hosting, Payments and Account Help: Start Here (SakuraHost)
- Understanding and Using cPanel Backup and Restore Features
- How to Migrate Your Website to SakuraHost from Another Provider
Frequently asked questions
How often should I back up?
Before every change, and at least weekly for an active site.
Can I restore from cPanel?
Yes. The restore tools in cPanel are explained in the backup guide.
Written by Jumbe Nylon, Founder & CTO, SakuraHost. Updated October 2026.