Introduction
Softaculous allows you to create a backup of your website before making changes or updates. Backups are stored automatically within your hosting account and can be restored later if required.
This guide explains how to create a backup of an application installed through Softaculous.
Step 1 – Log Into DirectAdmin
Open your browser and visit:
(Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name.)
Enter your DirectAdmin username and password.
Click: Log In
Step 2 – Open Softaculous Auto Installer
Click: Extra Features
Then click: Softaculous Auto Installer
Step 3 – Open Installations
Click: Installations
A list of your installed applications will be displayed.
Examples may include:
- WordPress
- Joomla
- PrestaShop
- phpBB
Step 4 – Create the Backup
Locate the website you wish to back up.
Click the Backup icon beside the installation.
Review the backup options.
By default, Softaculous includes both:
- Website Files
- Database
Click: Backup Installation
Softaculous will begin creating the backup.
Step 5 – Verify the Backup
Once the backup has completed:
Click: Backups and Restore
Locate the newly created backup.
You will see information such as:
- Backup Date
- Website URL
- Backup Size
The backup is stored automatically within your hosting account.
Restoring a Backup
To restore a backup:
Click: Backups and Restore
Locate the required backup.
Click the Restore icon.
Select whether to restore:
- Website Files
- Database
Click: Restore Installation
Allow the restoration process to complete.
Best Practices
- Create a backup before updating applications.
- Create a backup before installing new plugins or extensions.
- Keep multiple backups where possible.
- Verify that backups complete successfully.
- Delete old backups to free up disk space when necessary.
Common Problems
Backup Failed
The most common cause is insufficient disk space.
Delete old backups or unused files and try again.
Backup Takes a Long Time
Large websites with many files or images may require more time to complete.
Cannot Find My Backups
Open Softaculous.
Click: Backups and Restore
All available Softaculous backups will be displayed.
Conclusion
Softaculous provides a simple way to back up website applications. Creating regular backups helps protect your website and provides a convenient recovery option if problems occur.
This article would sit nicely alongside How to Restore a Website Installation Using Softaculous as the next article.
