Site security is key, whether you run a small blog or a complex business site. Regular backups can save you a lot of time and money in case of technical problems, hacker attacks or update errors.
There are several ways to back up a site. The most basic is the one that transfers all files from the site via the FTP protocol, and the SQL database is exported using the phpMyAdmin control panel. This method can be complicated for site owners who are less knowledgeable about the subject.
In this guide, we'll show you how to easily backup your Joomla and WordPress site using the Akeeba Backup plugin, which makes the process much easier.
What is Akeeba Backup?
Akeeba Backup is a popular plugin for Joomla and WordPress platforms that allows you to easily create complete backups of your site, including files and databases. It supports various archive formats and enables automatic backup scheduling.
1. Installation of Akeeba Backup Add-on
For Joomla:
1. Log in to the admin area of your Joomla site.
2. Go to Extensions → Manage → Install.
3. Download Akeeba Backup Core (free Joomla version ) from the official website akeeba.com .
4. In the installation section, select a file and click Upload & Install .
5. After installation, Akeeba Backup will be available under Components → Akeeba Backup.
For WordPress:
1. Download Akeeba Backup Core (free Wordpress version ) from the official website akeeba.com .
2. Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
3. Go to Plugins → Add New Plugin → Upload plugin → Choose File .
4. Find the plugin on your computer. Click on Install Now and then on Activate Plugin .
5. The plugin will be available in the menu on the left as Akeeba Backup .
2. Creating a Backup Copy
Steps for Joomla and WordPress (the process is almost identical):
1. Open Akeeba Backup from the admin panel.
2. You will be greeted by a Wizard to determine the optimal plugin settings. He only appears once. The process is automated and you will be able to back up the site after completion.
Layout of the configuration wizard
3. Click Backup Now.
Backing up the site
4. You can enter a description or note about this backup (eg "Backup before site update").
5. Click Backup Now.
Site backup process
6. Wait for the process to finish. Do not close the window while the backup is in progress.
7. When the process is finished, you will see a message that the backup was completed successfully.
3. Downloading the Backup Copy
1. Go to Manage Backups in Akeeba Add-ons.
2. When creating a backup copy, Akeeba Backup creates, if the site is not large, one file in the JPA or ZIP extension that also contains the database.
3. Find the last backup and click on Download . (Akeeba recommends downloading using an FTP client
Site backup download window
4. Save the file in a safe place, preferably off the server (local disk, external hard disk, cloud storage).
4. Automatic Backup Scheduling (Advanced)
Akeeba Backup in its paid PRO version also allows automatic backup scheduling using CRON tasks. This option is ideal for sites that require regular copies without manual work.
Why is Backup Important?
- Protection against data loss : Code errors, hacker attacks or hosting problems can compromise your site.
- Quick site restore : In case of problems, you can quickly restore the site to its previous state.
- Security during updates : Before any major update (core, plugins, themes), a backup is necessary.
Backing up has never been easier with Akeeba Backup . Make regular backups of your Joomla or WordPress site and be sure that your data is protected.
If you have questions or need help with installation and configuration, feel free to contact us !
