Database backups protect content, orders, users, settings, and application data. For most CMS sites, they are just as important as file backups.
Export Before Changes
Take a database export before migrations, bulk edits, plugin changes, and imports.
Label Backups Clearly
Use filenames that include the site name and date. A folder full of anonymous SQL files is not helpful during an emergency.
Store Copies Safely
Keep important backups away from the live server. Local-only backups are vulnerable to the same incident as the site.
Test Restores
Restore to staging or a temporary database so you know the export works.
A database backup is only useful if you can find it and restore it.
