Backing up your website is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your data. Whether you’re migrating to a new host, recovering from an error, or preparing for the unexpected, cPanel makes it easy to create and restore a full website backup.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to download a full backup from cPanel and how to restore it when needed.
What Is a Full cPanel Backup?
A full backup contains everything associated with your hosting account, including:
- Website files (public_html and other directories)
- Databases (MySQL)
- Email accounts and messages
- DNS settings
- cPanel configuration files
This type of backup is ideal for complete account restoration or server migration.
How to Download a Full Backup from cPanel
Step 1: Log in to cPanel
Log in to your cPanel account using the credentials provided by your web hosting provider.
Step 2: Open the Backup Tool
In the Files section, click on Backup or Backup Wizard.
- Backup gives you direct access to all backup options
- Backup Wizard offers a guided, beginner-friendly experience
Step 3: Generate a Full Backup
- Click Download a Full Account Backup
- Choose a Backup Destination (select Home Directory for easy access)
- Enter your email address to receive a notification when the backup is ready
- Click Generate Backup
The backup process may take several minutes, depending on the size of your account.
Step 4: Download the Backup File
Once the backup is complete:
- Return to the Backup section
- Download the backup file (usually ends in
.tar.gz) - Store it securely on your computer or external storage
How to Restore a Full Backup in cPanel
⚠️ Important Note:
Full backups cannot be restored directly through cPanel on most shared hosting plans. Restoring a full backup typically requires assistance from your hosting provider.
Option 1: Restore with Your Hosting Provider (Recommended)
- Upload the full backup file to your hosting account (or provide it to support)
- Contact your hosting provider’s support team
- Request a full account restore
This method ensures proper restoration of files, databases, email, and settings.
Option 2: Manual Partial Restore (Advanced Users)
If you only need specific parts of your site, you can restore them manually:
Restore Website Files
- Go to File Manager
- Upload and extract the backup file
- Copy files to the appropriate directory (e.g.,
public_html)
Restore Databases
- Open phpMyAdmin
- Create a new database
- Import the database
.sqlfile from the backup
Restore Email Accounts
Email accounts must usually be recreated manually through cPanel.
Best Practices for Website Backups
- Download backups regularly (weekly or monthly)
- Keep copies stored off-server
- Verify backups after major updates
- Maintain multiple backup versions
- Never rely on a single backup location
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to download and restore a full backup from cPanel gives you peace of mind and control over your website. While full restores often require hosting provider support, having your own backup ensures you’re always prepared for migrations, errors, or emergencies.
If you need help restoring a backup or setting up automatic backups, the support team at Your Web Hosting.ca is always here to help.
Need assistance?
Contact our support team and we’ll guide you through the process step by step.