How to Enable Automatic WordPress Backups via cPanel

Why Enable Automatic Backups?

• Prevents data loss from hacks, server crashes, or accidental deletion.
• Makes it easy to restore your site to a previous working state.
• Essential for WordPress updates and plugin/theme changes.

Option 1: Use JetBackup (If Available in Your cPanel)

1. Log in to your cPanel account.
2. Scroll down to the JetBackup section.
3. Click on Full Backups or Backup Jobs.
4. Set up your backup schedule (daily, weekly, monthly) based on your needs.
5. Choose backup retention (how many backups you want to keep).
6. Enable automatic backups and save the configuration.

Note: JetBackup settings may vary slightly depending on your hosting provider.

Option 2: Enable Automatic Backups via Softaculous

When you install WordPress using Softaculous, you can set up auto backups:

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. Go to Softaculous Apps Installer and click on WordPress.
3. Under “Current Installations,” find your site and click the pencil icon (Edit).
4. Scroll to the “Backup Location” and “Automated Backups” settings.
5. Set backups to occur daily, weekly, or monthly.
6. Choose the number of backup copies to retain (usually 2–4).
7. Save changes.

Option 3: Use WordPress Backup Plugins (Bonus Tip)

If your host does not provide automatic backup tools, you can install a plugin:

• UpdraftPlus – Schedule cloud backups (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.)
• BackupBuddy – Full backups with email notifications
• BlogVault – Real-time backups and easy restores

Install the plugin from the WordPress dashboard and configure automatic schedules.

How to Restore from a Backup (Optional Step)

If you need to restore your website:

• Use JetBackup > Restore option to revert to a selected backup.
• Or use Softaculous > WordPress > Restore icon next to your installation.
• Confirm restore and wait until it completes.

Best Practices

• Always keep at least one recent backup stored offsite (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.).
• Test the restore function after major changes to ensure backups work properly.
• Set automated emails to notify you when backups complete or fail.