Database backups are essential whenever you update applications, migrate data, or troubleshoot issues. Plesk allows you to export databases as SQL files and restore them later without using command-line tools.
This workflow is commonly used on environments managed through Plesk hosting where database access is handled at the control panel level.
When Database Backups Are Important
Creating database backups is recommended when:
- Updating CMS platforms or plugins
- Importing or modifying large datasets
- Preparing for site migrations
- Recovering from data corruption or accidental deletion
Keeping recent backups helps you restore data quickly with minimal downtime.
Backing Up a Database
Étape 1: Open the Databases section
Log in to the Plesk control panel.
From the left sidebar, faire un clic Bases de données.
[Screenshot: Plesk sidebar with Databases option]
Étape 2: Export the database
Locate the database you want to back up and click Export Dump.
[Screenshot: Export Dump option for database]
Choose a destination directory and specify a filename for the backup.
If you want the SQL file to download automatically to your computer, enable the option to download the dump after creation.
Faire un clic OK. Plesk will export the database as an SQL file.
Restoring a Database
Restoring a database replaces its current contents. To avoid data loss, always create a backup of the existing database before restoring.
Étape 1: Import a backup file
Dans le Bases de données section, locate the database you want to restore and click Import Dump.
[Screenshot: Import Dump option for database]
Browse to the location of the SQL backup file, select it, and click OK.
Plesk will import the file and restore the database.
Practical Notes
- Always keep backups with clear filenames and dates
- Test restores on non-production databases when possible
- Large databases may take longer to export or import
Database backups are often combined with site-level or server-level backups on serveurs cloud et dedicated server environments to ensure full recovery coverage.