How to restore a backup in cPanel

Restoring a backup in cPanel allows you to recover files, databases, and configurations in case of data loss, errors, or system issues. Backups can be restored either partially or fully, depending on the data you need to recover. cPanel provides an interface to restore backups quickly without needing to manually upload and configure files.

Restoring a backup can be done using the Backup tool or the Backup Wizard. You can restore individual components such as databases or specific directories, or you can perform a full account restoration. It's important to make sure that the backup file is correctly located and accessible before initiating the restore process. Also, take caution when overwriting existing files, as this action is irreversible.

Backups stored locally or on external servers can be restored by uploading the backup file to cPanel or selecting the file if it’s already stored on the server. Verifying the integrity of the backup before starting the restoration is recommended to avoid partial or corrupted restorations.

1. Log in to your cPanel account.
2. Navigate to the Files section.
3. Click on Backup or Backup Wizard.

   The Backup Wizard simplifies the restoration process by guiding you through each step, while the Backup tool offers more direct control over individual components.

4. Scroll down to the Restore a Home Directory Backup or Restore a MySQL Database Backup section, depending on what you want to restore.

   If you’re restoring a full backup, use the Restore a Full Backup option. If you only need to recover specific files or databases, select the appropriate section.

5. Click on Choose File and upload the backup file from your local machine or select the backup from the server if it’s stored locally.

   Ensure the backup file format is correct. cPanel typically uses .tar.gz for full backups and .sql for database backups. Uploading an unsupported file type may lead to errors.

   Example backup file:
   full_backup_2023-09-15.tar.gz
   database_backup.sql

6. Once the file is uploaded, click Upload and start the restoration process.
7. Monitor the progress and wait for the restoration to complete.

   Restoration time varies depending on the file size and server speed. Larger backups may take longer to restore.

8. After the restoration is complete, verify that all files and databases have been restored correctly by checking your website and cPanel account.

   Review the Backup Logs for details on the restoration process, including any errors encountered during restoration.

   Sample restoration log:
   [2023-09-17 10:34:12] Restoration of full_backup_2023-09-15.tar.gz started...
   [2023-09-17 10:56:45] Restoration completed successfully.