Knowledgebase

Restoring a backup is crucial when you need to revert your site to a previous state due to data loss, errors, or problematic updates. This guide will walk you through the process of restoring a backup using your DirectAdmin account.

Step-by-Step Restoration Process

1. Log in to DirectAdmin: Access your hosting control panel.
2. Navigate to Backup Management:
   • Option 1: In the "Advanced Features" section, click on the "Create/Restore Backups" icon.
   • Option 2: Type 'Restore' in the navigation filter box and select the appropriate option.
3. Initiate Restore: Click the 'Restore Backup' button located on the top right-hand side.
4. Select Backup: From the drop-down menu under 'Restore Backup', choose the specific backup file you wish to restore.
5. Customize Restore Options: Under "Restore Options", you can:
   • Leave all options checked to restore everything.
   • Uncheck specific data types you don't want to include in the restore.
6. Start Restoration: Scroll to the bottom of the page and click the 'Restore Backup' button to begin the process.

Monitoring the Restore Progress

1. Click on your username at the top right of the DirectAdmin panel.
2. Select "Messages" from the dropdown menu.
3. Here, you'll find updates and notifications about the restore process.

Note: The restoration time varies depending on the backup size and data involved. It's recommended to check Messages after a few minutes to track progress.

Best Practices and Precautions

• Verify Backup: Ensure you're restoring the correct backup before proceeding.
• Understand Impact: Be aware of which data will be affected by the restore.
• Create a Current Backup: If possible, perform a new backup before initiating a restore to safeguard against unexpected issues.
• Avoid Interruptions: Do not close the browser or interrupt the process once restoration has begun.
• Test After Restore: Once restoration is complete, thoroughly test your website to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Troubleshooting

• If the restore fails, check the error messages in the DirectAdmin Messages section for more information.
• Contact your hosting provider's support if you encounter persistent issues or need assistance interpreting error messages.

Remember: Restoring a backup is a critical operation that can significantly affect your site. Always proceed with caution and ensure you understand the implications of the restore process.