This article applies to web hosting accounts managed in DirectAdmin. It does not apply to Hosted Email or to VPS services, which have their own controls and backup arrangements.
Your responsibility for backups
Under the ArkHost Terms, you are responsible for maintaining your own backups of critical data. Backups kept by ArkHost are provided on a best effort basis depending on your plan. Treat any backup visible in DirectAdmin as one copy, not as your only copy.
Create and download a backup
In DirectAdmin, the backup function is typically found under Advanced Features as Create/Restore Backups. Menu labels can differ between panel versions and themes. If you cannot find it, use the search box in the panel.
- Select the data you want to include and create the backup.
- Download the finished backup file and store it somewhere independent of the hosting account.
Create and download an independent backup before significant changes such as migrations, upgrades or redesigns. Where possible, test your restore plan so you know how you would use your own copy.
Check for available restore points
Any restore points available for your account are listed in the same backup area of DirectAdmin. Availability, contents and retention vary and are not guaranteed. Do not assume a particular date or type of data is present until you see it listed.
Before you restore
Before you restore:
- Identify the scope you actually need: specific files, a database, email or the full account.
- Create and download a current backup first if you can, so you can return to the present state.
- Plan the restore for a low traffic period where possible.
If the option you need is missing
If a required backup or restore option is not available in DirectAdmin, open a support ticket and include:
- Your hosting account username or the primary domain on the account.
- The affected domain.
- The approximate restore point you need.
- The scope requested, for example specific files, a database or email.
