Website backup is the most ignored task. When was the last time you backed up your website? You complete your website (or have it done for you) and then you update maybe some plugins or create a blog post but what you often forget to do, is weekly backups. We often forget simply because it poses no immediate threat until something happens to your hosting server or a plugin you upgraded wasn’t compatible or maybe core files updated and they didn’t work with your page builder. Many times backups are set aside, delayed, and even regarded as a nuisance to the busy website owner.
They just don’t realize what is at stake here.
So before your website will be wiped out of the internet by unexpected accidents like server breakdowns, harddisk failures, hacking and DDOS attacks among other bad things, let me share with you the 10 Backup E-S-S-E-N-T-I-A-L-S you should not live without online.
Expect
All Webhosting companies (even the biggest and the most boastful out there) may encounter problems and that your diligence to backup up will pay off later on. Online computing has never been so unpredictable that the worse of times will happen when you least expect it. With the proper mindset, you are ensuring the continuity of your online endeavor in any eventualities. In short, be ready.
Schedule
Your backup process should not compete with your busy schedules. Create your own backup schedule at the most convenient time for you in the week. I oftentimes like to backup my websites and client sites early on a Saturday morning. I use Updraft and it makes the process simple and easy. The files are uploaded to my Google drive where I then move them over to client shared folders so they have full access to them as well. Make your back up easy.
Stick with it
Just do it. Once you have a schedule, stick with it. You must do this diligently every time it should happen. This is a tough challenge especially for busy people working online. But the sooner you discipline yourself and make backing up your files a habit, the more you will benefit from a worry-free online environment. In short, get a good habit.
Evaluate
After a while, test your backup files. A good backup can be tested by simply restoring it to another system or a subdomain. (not sure about a subdomain? Reach out and I’ll explain.) Evaluating your backup results from time to time is a good way to know that you are keeping what you should keep – a good and working backup.
No Complacency
After some time, your backup schedule may slip away and you will tend to forget or unintentionally miss it. Set a reminder on your phone or set your backup to automatically happen. But remember to review it every so often. You’d hate to get stuck needing a new backup and realize it hasn’t completed one in months!
Trash
I like to keep the latest 2 weeks worth of backups. You can keep up to a month but usually, the last two are the ones you’ll be using to restore if needed Saving more than that uses up valuable hard disk space on your PC or external hard drive. Backup only what you need.
Intuition
Have faith in your backup results. Believe that what you are doing is for your own good later on. Like vitamins that keep your body healthy, backups keeps your mind away from stress and worries. A good working backup will make you smile even on the worst of times because you are insured by your patience.
Automate
Look for alternatives to traditional backup process that can make your life simpler. There are several technologies and softwares you can use now to generate the fastest and safest backup files you will need to restore in case of emergency without you lifting a finger. I personally like Updraft for backups. I do usually manually back them up but I have it on Auto just in case.
Liberate
Free yourself from worries and anxiety of the unexpected. With your own backup systems established, you can sleep better at night knowing you your website is safe and secure – even if something happens.
Security
Nothing beats the feeling of being secured. Why do we pay insurance? Security and peace of mind we will remain whole. Same with backups. Your commitment to back up your files will save you from stress, frustration, anger, and lots of headaches in the event there becomes a problem.
If you aren’t sure how to back up your website or you need someone to complete that task for you, send us a quick message. We are happy to help!
