Why backup?
1) hosting companies disappear
2) servers crash
3) code gets corrupted
Ok, so I convinced you. Now if you’re like most people, you’ve got 2 tasks ahead:
To backup your database, use the WP-Database-Backup plugin. Before I discovered this simple backup plugin, I manually backed up my clients’ databases for them before I upgraded their version of WordPress. Those of you who have used MySql to backup can imagine how grateful I was to discover a plugin that would do this automatically. With WP-database-backup, you can schedule an automatic backup with email delivery to yourself or your WordPress manager.
To backup your wp-content folder, use an ftp program like fetch or use your web hosting control panel’s file manager. Once you’ve copied the wp-content folder to your computer or hard drive, burn your database and your wp-content folder onto a CD-R or DVD disk for storage (remember – hard drives can fail). Then sleep well at night – you’ve backed yourself up!
By the way…Did you know that most WordPress developers create themes and plugins on their own time and then accept donations from users? If you find a WordPress plugin useful, please consider donating any amount of money to the developer. You can usually find a “donate” button on their website.
Want to learn more about how to maintain your WordPress site? Purchase some coaching time with me.
Here to help you make your finest dreams come true,
-Catherine