Getting a copy.
WHY
A backup Migrating away Working locally Archiving a site you are retiring
THE FAST METHOD
Compress on the server first, then download one archive.
File Manager can create an archive of a folder.
WHAT TO INCLUDE
Everything in public_html, including hidden files Anything above it your application uses
WHAT NOT TO FORGET
.htaccess Any configuration file Anything in a non-obvious location
FOR A COMPLETE BACKUP
Files alone are not a backup. You also need the database.
cPanel full account backup includes both, plus email.
WHERE TO STORE IT
Not on the server. Downloaded, and ideally copied somewhere else again.
HOW OFTEN
Depends on how often content changes.
Monthly for a static site. More often for anything active.
VERIFYING
Open the archive and check it contains what you expect.
