cPanel can restore supported partial backups of your home directory, databases, email forwarders, or filters. A full account archive is different: automatic full account restoration is performed through WHM or hosting support. Restoring older data can overwrite current content, so decide exactly what needs recovery first.
Before you start
- Confirm the backup belongs to the correct account, contains the needed component, and predates the problem. Keep a separate copy of current data before restoring.
- For a live shop or frequently updated website, arrange a maintenance window so new orders or other changes are not lost during recovery.
Instructions
Identify the backup type
Determine whether you have a supported partial backup or a full account archive. If it is a full archive and you need the entire account restored, contact support with its location and date.
Open the restore workflow
In cPanel, open Files, then Backup Wizard, and select Restore. The Backup interface also offers partial restore controls.
Choose the matching component
Select the restore type that matches the file, such as Home Directory or Databases. Do not upload a full account archive into a partial restore field.
Upload the backup
Choose File, select the correct local archive, and click Upload. Keep the page open until cPanel reports the result; do not interrupt an active restore.
Check the recovered service
Review the restore output, then test the affected website or mailbox. When recovering a database-driven website, confirm its files and database represent a compatible state.
Check the result
- Check representative pages, login, and the specific content you intended to recover.
- Retain the original backup and your pre-restore copy until the restored service has been checked.
Troubleshooting
- The backup will not upload.
- Check the archive type and the upload limit shown by the interface. Ask support about an approved restore method for a larger file.
- The restore finishes but the website fails.
- Check the application's database connection settings and whether both files and database were recovered. Send support the restore output without including passwords.
Watch the video
The video may show an older interface. Use the written instructions above when screen names differ.
Continue with a related task
- How to Download a Backup from cPanel
- How to Send a cPanel Backup to a Remote Server
- How to Import a Database with phpMyAdmin in cPanel
