Step-by-step instructions
- Step 01
Determine if the site is WordPress.com hosted or self-hosted, as backup options differ.
- Step 02
On WordPress.com, check available export/backup tools in your plan, and export posts/pages when possible.
- Step 03
For self-hosted sites, arrange a backup that includes both database and wp-content/files; posts alone are not enough to restore plugins and theme settings.
- Step 04
Prefer automated backups plus a second copy stored somewhere other than the same hosting account.
- Step 05
Write down how to restore the backup and test restoration on a staging site when feasible.
- Step 06
Make a fresh backup before plugin, theme, PHP, DNS or site migration work.
- Step 07
Keep private backups encrypted/protected and review their schedule occasionally.
Before you finish: important checks
- A WordPress Export XML file is useful for content migration, but is not always a full restore backup.
Common problems and fixes
- Restore fails? Confirm PHP/MySQL version and database credentials with your host.
Frequently asked questions
How often?
Match the schedule to how frequently your site changes and how much data loss you can tolerate.
WordPress, hosting and AI interfaces change. Check the service's current documentation before changing billing, domain DNS, security or important site settings. Rayhan Studio publishes educational help, not guaranteed results.