What automatic backups are

Introduction

Automatic backups are backup copies generated by the system without you having to create them manually each time.

In hosting, these copies can help you recover a website, database or files if there is an error, an accidental deletion, a failed update or a security incident.

What an automatic backup is

An automatic backup is a scheduled copy of your data.

It may include:

• Website files.
• Databases.
• Emails hosted in the account.
• Service settings.
• Hosting directories.

The frequency and retention may vary depending on the infrastructure and the service.

What automatic backups are used for

They give you a recovery point in case something goes wrong.

For example:

1. You update WordPress and the website stops working.
2. You delete files by mistake.
3. A database becomes damaged.
4. A plugin causes errors.
5. Your website gets infected with malware.
6. You need to recover an older version.

The difference between an automatic and a manual backup

Automatic backup

It is generated by the system on a schedule. It is convenient and reduces the risk of forgetting.

Manual backup

You create it yourself when you need it. It is ideal before touching files, updating a website or changing databases.

The best approach is to use both.

Why you should not rely only on automatic backups

Although automatic backups are very useful, they should not be your only copy.

It is also a good idea to download your own copies because:

• You may need them urgently.
• You may want to keep a specific version.
• You can store them outside the server.
• You can restore them in another environment.
• No backup system is infallible.

When to make an additional manual backup

Create a manual copy before:

1. Updating WordPress, Prestashop, Joomla or Drupal.
2. Changing plugins, themes or modules.
3. Editing .htaccess.
4. Importing or exporting a database.
5. Migrating your website.
6. Cleaning suspicious files.
7. Deleting old folders.

Useful tips

• Keep your copies outside the hosting account.
• Add the date to downloaded filenames.
• Verify that the copy includes both files and the database.
• Do not restore a copy without understanding what will be lost.
• Keep several versions if your website changes often.
• Document major changes on your website.

Common problems

I restored a backup and lost recent changes

That is normal if the copy was made before those changes. Before restoring, confirm the backup date.

The backup does not solve the hack

It can restore the website, but if you do not fix the vulnerability, the issue can happen again.

I cannot find my manual backup

Save backups with clear names and in an organized location.

Frequently asked questions

Are automatic backups created by themselves

Yes. They are generated automatically by the system on a schedule.

Can I request a restore from support

Yes. Provide the domain, the approximate date and what you need to recover.

Should I still create backups if miHosting already does it

Yes. It is a good practice to keep your own copies too, especially before major changes.

Does an automatic backup include databases

A hosting backup may include them, but it is a good idea to verify it or mention it when requesting a restore.

Conclusion

Automatic backups are an essential safety net for your hosting. Even so, the best protection is to combine them with your own manual copies before important changes and keep those copies outside the server.