Applies to: Linux and WordPress hosting customers
Virtualmin can back up your entire virtual server — website files, databases, email and settings — in one go. It's the easiest complete safety net before big changes, and a good habit on a schedule.
Running a backup
- Log into Virtualmin (see How to log into Virtualmin).
- In the left sidebar, expand Backup and Restore and choose Backup Virtual Servers.
- Under the features to include, the default of all features (files, databases, mail, settings) gives you a complete backup.
- Choose the destination — a download to your browser, or a file in your home directory on the server (if you save it on the server, download it afterwards and then delete the server copy so it doesn't consume your disk quota).
- Run the backup and wait for it to complete. The result is a single archive you can store anywhere safe.
Restoring
Under Backup and Restore > Restore Backup, choose the backup archive and which features to restore. Restoring overwrites current content with what's in the backup, so be sure of what you're rolling back before confirming. If you're unsure, open a support ticket first — we're happy to help with restores.
A sensible backup routine
Back up before every upgrade, migration or redesign; on a regular schedule matched to how often your content changes; and always keep at least one copy off the server (your computer or cloud storage). We keep server-level disaster-recovery backups on our side, but your own backups are what let you roll back exactly when and what you choose.
Related articles
How to log into Virtualmin • How to manage databases in Virtualmin • How to use the file manager and upload your site (Virtualmin)
