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AHANIX working resource

Website Backup Checklist

Plan backup scope, separation, access, retention, testing and restoration responsibilities.

For: Website owners who need confidence that a usable recovery path exists.

Section 01

Coverage and separation

  • Include the database, uploaded files, configuration and required secrets or recovery instructions.
  • Keep at least one protected copy outside the live website environment.
  • Use retention intervals that reflect how quickly harmful changes may be noticed.
  • Protect backup accounts and storage with restricted access and MFA.

Section 02

Verification

  • Monitor backup success and investigate missed or unusually small copies.
  • Test restoration in an isolated environment.
  • Check that application versions and dependencies needed for recovery are available.
  • Record the most recent successful restore test.

Section 03

Recovery ownership

  • Name who can authorise and perform a restore.
  • Define acceptable recovery time and data-loss windows for the business.
  • Document DNS, hosting and third-party steps required after restoration.
  • Keep incident communication and evidence needs separate from the restore procedure.