Accidents happen, and your website could face unexpected challenges like data loss, server issues, or a cyber-attack. Fortunately, Acronis makes it easy to restore your website to its previous state, especially when you're using DirectAdmin and accessing it via the exHost Dashboard. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps to restore your website safely and effectively.
Step 1: Log in to the exHost Dashboard
The first step in the restoration process is accessing the exHost Dashboard. The exHost platform is where you manage your web hosting services, and it offers an easy-to-use interface for managing backups and recovery.
- Open your web browser and navigate to the exHost login page.
- Enter your username and password, then click Login.
- Once logged in, you should be directed to the exHost Dashboard, where you’ll find a variety of options for managing your hosting services.
Step 2: Access the Acronis Backup Service
Acronis offers cloud-based backup solutions, making it a reliable tool for restoring your website’s data. To access your backup settings via exHost:
- On the Dashboard, locate the Backup & Restore section.
- Click on Acronis Backup to open the backup management page.
- You may need to authenticate your request if required. Ensure you are logged in to your Acronis account.
Step 3: Select the Backup Version You Want to Restore
Acronis stores backups of your website at different time points, giving you the flexibility to restore data from various dates. Here’s how to choose the right version:
- Browse through the available backups to find the one you wish to restore. You’ll typically see timestamps for each backup, helping you identify when the backup was created.
- Select the backup version you want to use. Acronis allows you to view more details about the backup if needed, such as files and databases.
Step 4: Start the Restoration Process
After selecting the backup you want to restore, the next step is to initiate the recovery process. The process may vary depending on the backup configuration, but generally, it follows these steps:
- Click Restore or Recover (depending on the wording used in your Acronis interface).
- A confirmation prompt will appear, asking if you're sure you want to restore the selected backup. Read the message carefully to ensure you're restoring the correct version.
- Once confirmed, the restoration process will begin. Depending on the size of the backup and your website's data, it might take some time to complete.
Step 5: Monitor the Restoration Progress
Acronis will display the status of the restoration process in real-time. During the restoration, make sure not to interrupt the process, as this could result in data corruption. You can usually monitor the progress through a status bar or progress messages.
Step 6: Verify Your Website
Once the restoration is complete, it’s essential to check if everything has been restored properly. Visit your website to ensure:
- All pages load correctly.
- Images and other media are intact.
- Forms, scripts, and other dynamic content are working as expected.
- Your email accounts and other services linked to the website are functioning normally.
Conclusion
Restoring your website using Acronis via the exHost Dashboard is a simple process that can save you from the headache of data loss. By following these steps, you can quickly recover your website’s content and get back online with minimal disruption. Remember, regular backups are key to maintaining a secure and reliable website, so be sure to schedule regular Acronis backups to keep your site safe in case of emergencies.
