Plugins are an important piece of software for WordPress users. They allow you to add extra functions to your website without any prior coding knowledge. With just one click of a button, users can install a plugin and implement useful features on their websites. Some of the most common of these features include faster loading times, contact forms, and website backup.
Backup plugins are especially useful for security reasons. Any website can come into the danger of losing its data to a security breach. In these situations, having a backup is important. With a backup plugin, you can not only backup your website, but also restore it anytime when needed. In this article, we will go into detail on what to consider before installing a backup plugin. We will also explore the best WordPress backup plugins.
Things to Consider Before Installing a Backup Plugin
When it comes to installing plugins in general, you want to ask yourself a basic list of questions. Since plugins are usually provided by a third-party provider, it’s important to browse for plugins and find a safe and functional one. Here are some questions you should consider before you pick a backup plugin for your website.
Is the plugin frequently updated?
While plugins are often cited as one of the main sources of security risks for WordPress websites, this is often just because these plugins aren’t updated. Older plugins aren’t the most secure, and you’re better off with a plugin that has been recently updated.
Is there tech support for the plugin?
Tech support is important in case you run into troubleshooting difficulties, or if there is a bug in the plugin. Double-check and read reviews to see if the third party which created the plug-in is also offering tech support. If not, it might be better to consider a different backup plugin.
Where are the backups stored?
Make sure the backup plugin has an independent and off-site storage space for your website. A backup plugin that stores your website’s backups on the client server defeats the purpose. Not only does this take up extra storage space that your website could otherwise use, but it makes your website even more vulnerable to security breaches.
Can the backup plugin quickly restore your website?
What’s the point of a backup plugin if you can’t easily restore your website when you need to? Double-check that the backup plugin has a way to restore your website without any troubleshooting hassles.
Does the plugin allow for multiple backups? Are they automatic or manual?
When it comes to building websites, scalability is essential. As websites grow, so do the resources needed to upkeep them. Having multiple backups is key for those who aspire to develop their websites further. You also want to look into whether or not a plugin offers automatic or manual backups. While the former sounds convenient, some individuals prefer the latter. Pick a plugin that best fits your website development style.
Best Backup Plugins
Now that you know more about what to look for when it comes to backup plugins, the next step is to browse. There are tons of backup plugins available to WordPress users, but we have compiled some of the best ones here.
Updraft Plus
This backup plugin is available for free, and allows for backups for your website’s database, plugins, and themes. Even for those who aren’t that tech-savvy, you can backup and restore everything with a click of a button. Users have a choice between full, manual, and scheduled backups. In terms of storage options, you can choose to backup to Google Drive, Dropbox, or Amazon S3.
BackupBuddy
While BackupBuddy isn’t free and is a premium WordPress plugin, it offers several unique advantages. These advantages include real-time backups and the ability to migrate websites. Real-time backups allow your website to be backed up in increments versus in one sitting. The benefit of this type of backup is that it allows your website to run smoothly without having to stop for the backup. While you are editing your website’s pages or adjusting its content, BackupBuddy makes sure that all changes are saved.
Though you do have to pay a fee to use BackupBuddy, it’s not subscription-based, so you don’t have to worry about budgeting for a monthly fee.
BlogVault
With BlogVault, you have the option to backup multiple websites. The plugin also comes with a staging tool. This tool helps with migrating your website to a new host, server, or domain. BlogVault also has an extra layer of security for those who run an online shop on their website. With WooCommerce as a backup integration, BlogVault helps in protecting your website’s orders.
In terms of pricing, BlogVault is a subscription service with a monthly fee. Depending on your desired features, this will run from $7.40 to $20.75 per month.
Duplicator
Duplicator is a plugin built for those who like to get a bit more hands-on with the backup process. With Duplicator, you can back up all your WordPress files into a .zip format, allowing for offline storage as well as server migration. What makes Duplicator stand out from other backup plugins is that you can use it to copy pre-configured websites. With a pre-configured website, website migration is much smoother.
Along with these features, Duplicator also allows for cloud storage of backups as well as scheduled backups. You can use Duplicator for free or for more features, you can pay $59.00 a year for Duplicator Pro.
VaultPress
VaultPress has two functions: backups and security scans. This tidy plugin allows you to hit two birds with one stone effectively. Not only can users benefit from real-time backups, but there’s also an automated restore option. The plugin will also scan your website and its system for suspicious codes or malicious file changes.
For pricing options, VaultPress has a $3 per month and a $20 per month option. The former allows for daily backups while the latter allows for real-time backups.
BackWPup
For those who don’t backup their sites as often but just want a backup plugin just in case, BackWPup is also a great free plugin option. With BackWPup, you can send backups to cloud storage, email, or straight to your computer for offline storage. You can also set your automatic backups to the update frequency of your website.
Hopefully you now understand some of the basics of WordPress backup plugins, and how these tools can help you take your website to the next level. Happy designing!