Introduction: Why VPS Backups Matter More Than You Think
Losing a website is one of the most stressful experiences for any business owner. One accidental delete, failed update, hacking attempt, or server issue can wipe out months—or years—of work in seconds. That’s why backups are not optional. They are your last line of defense.
If you’re running a website on a cPanel-powered VPS (Virtual Private Server) in Pakistan, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about backups, from basic concepts to best practices used by professionals. Whether you’re a beginner or managing multiple websites, this guide is designed to help you protect your data with confidence.
Understanding VPS Hosting and Why Backups Are Critical
A VPS (Virtual Private Server) gives you dedicated resources within a larger physical server. Think of it as owning your own apartment inside a building—you have control over your space, but the building infrastructure is shared.
Because VPS hosting offers more control than shared hosting, it also comes with more responsibility. Unlike shared hosting, where many backup tasks are handled automatically, VPS users must understand how backups work and ensure they are done properly.
This is one reason why VPS hosting in Pakistan is popular among growing businesses—it offers flexibility, performance, and scalability. But without a proper backup strategy, that flexibility can quickly become a risk.
What Exactly Is a Website Backup?
A website backup is a complete copy of all critical components that make your website function. These components include:
- Website files (HTML, images, videos, themes, plugins)
- Databases (content, users, settings)
- Email accounts and messages
- Configuration files and system settings
A proper backup packages all of this data into a compressed archive so it can be restored exactly as it was. Simply downloading files via FTP is not enough, because it does not capture databases or system configurations correctly.
In short, a backup ensures that your website can be rebuilt exactly the same way, even after a major failure.
Common Reasons Websites Fail (And Why Backups Save You)
Websites rarely fail for just one reason. Here are the most common scenarios where backups become lifesavers:
Security Issues
Hackers, malware, and ransomware attacks can corrupt or delete your data. Even small websites are targets.
Human Error
Accidentally deleting files, overwriting databases, or misconfiguring settings happens more often than people admit.
Failed Updates
Plugin, theme, or CMS updates—especially on WordPress—can break compatibility and crash your site.
Server or Hardware Failure
Even modern servers can fail due to disk issues, power problems, or data corruption.
In all these cases, a recent backup allows you to restore your website quickly and minimize downtime.
Types of Backups in cPanel Explained
cPanel offers two primary backup types. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right option.
Full Account Backup
A full backup includes:
- All website files
- All databases
- Email accounts and messages
- DNS and configuration settings
This backup is best for:
- Major changes
- Site migrations
- Disaster recovery
Partial Backups
Partial backups allow you to back up specific components:
- Home Directory (website files + emails)
- MySQL Databases
- Email Forwarders
- Email Filters
Partial backups are ideal for quick protection before making small changes.
How to Create a Full Backup in cPanel (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Log In to cPanel
Access your cPanel using your VPS login details, usually via yourdomain.com:2083.
Step 2: Open the Backup Tool
Navigate to the Files section and click Backup.
Step 3: Select Full Backup
Choose Download a Full Account Backup.
Step 4: Choose Backup Destination
For security reasons, never store backups on the same server.
Recommended destinations:
- Your personal computer
- External hard drive
- Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.)
Download the backup first, then upload it to cloud storage if needed.
Step 5: Wait for Completion
Backup time depends on website size and server load. You’ll usually receive an email once it’s finished.
Best Practices for Secure VPS Backups
Creating backups is only half the job. Following best practices ensures they actually protect you.
- Always store backups off-server
- Keep at least 2–3 recent backup versions
- Schedule backups regularly
- Verify backup files monthly
- Create a backup before every major update
A backup that isn’t tested or stored safely is almost as risky as having no backup at all.
Restoring Your Website from a Backup
Restoring Partial Backups
Partial backups can be restored directly from cPanel:
- Open the Backup tool
- Locate the relevant restore option
- Upload your backup file
- Let cPanel restore the data automatically
Restoring Full Backups
Full account backups require WHM (Web Host Manager) access.
Most managed VPS users will need to contact their hosting provider’s support team to perform a full restoration. This ensures the process is handled safely and correctly.
Automatic Backups vs Manual Backups
A strong backup strategy includes both.
Automatic Backups
- Scheduled by your hosting provider
- Useful for emergencies
- Often limited in retention
Manual Backups
- Full control over timing and storage
- Ideal before updates or changes
- Safer when stored externally
The best approach is using automatic backups as a safety net and manual backups for full control.
Choosing a VPS Provider That Takes Backups Seriously
When selecting VPS hosting in Pakistan, backups and support should be non-negotiable.
A reliable hosting provider should offer:
- Regular automatic backups
- Secure off-site storage
- Clear backup retention policies
- 24/7 technical support
- Assistance with full restores via WHM
CreativeON provides managed VPS solutions with built-in backup support, professional assistance, and reliable infrastructure designed for Pakistani businesses.
Backup Frequency: How Often Should You Back Up?
- Active websites or eCommerce stores: Weekly (or more frequently)
- Blogs updated occasionally: Every 2–4 weeks
- Static websites: Monthly
Always create a manual backup before making major changes, regardless of your regular schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Full backups include files, databases, emails, and configurations.
Typically, partial restores require support assistance when using full backups.
Large websites may take longer. Start the process and allow it to complete in the background.
External drives, cloud storage, or a different server location.
Final Thoughts: Make Backups a Habit, Not a Panic Button
Backups are not something you think about only after something goes wrong. They are a habit that protects your business, your data, and your peace of mind.
With cPanel, creating backups is simple—even for beginners. A few minutes spent today can save you days of stress tomorrow.
If you’re unsure about your backup setup or need help restoring data, a professional VPS support team can make all the difference.
The author
Asher Feroze
I’m Asher Feroze, and I’ve been part of CreativeON for several years, working in various roles including Manager Operations, Business Development Manager, and technical support for our web hosting services. Over time, I’ve gained deep insights into both the business and technical sides of the industry. Now, I use that experience to write informative articles for CreativeON, Gworkspace, and gworkspacepartner.pk, helping readers make smart choices when it comes to web hosting and Google Workspace solutions.