What Is a Scheduled Server Backup?

A scheduled backup is a full copy of a server that is made automatically on a timetable, such as every day, and kept for a set number of copies. When the server is lost, broken or deleted, you restore it from the most recent good copy. Unlike a snapshot, a backup is meant to survive a problem with the server itself.

How it works

At each scheduled time the platform copies the server's data and settings into a backup. It keeps a fixed number of the newest backups and deletes the oldest when a new one is made, which is called retention. A good backup is stored away from the server, so one failure cannot take out both.

How often to back up depends on how much work you can afford to lose. With daily backups, the worst case is losing up to a day of changes.

When to use it

• Any server whose data you would miss: a database, a self-hosted app, a website with uploads.
• Alongside snapshots, which are quick undo points stored next to the server.
• Before you hand a server to someone else, or when a rule says you must keep copies.

When not to use it

• For a quick undo before an upgrade. A snapshot is faster to take and to roll back.
• As the only protection for a busy database. Backups run on a timetable; a database's own dump or replication can capture changes in between. You can store dumps in object storage.

How it works on VeloxaHost

• A schedule per server. On the Backups page, choose Schedule and pick a frequency (every 6 hours, every 12 hours, daily or weekly) and how many backups to keep (1 to 10).
• Off-site. Backups are copied off-site.
• On demand. Create a backup at any time from the Backups page.
• Download. Download a backup to keep your own copy.
• Restore as a new server. Restore any backup as a new server, which also works as a way to copy a server.
• Managed hosting too. Managed web hosting plans include backups on the schedule you choose.
• No separate charge today. Backups are not billed as their own line; your plan's quotas are in the console under Settings, Usage.

FAQ

How often should I back up?

As often as the amount of work you can afford to lose. Daily suits most sites and apps; every 6 or 12 hours suits data that changes all day.

Where are VeloxaHost backups stored?

They are copied off-site, away from the server they were made from.

Can I keep a backup on my own computer?

Yes. Download any backup from the Backups page.

What is the difference between a backup and a snapshot?

A snapshot is an undo point stored next to the server. A backup is a full copy, copied off-site, that you can download or restore as a new server.