How to Backup and Restore a PrestaShop Website (Complete Guide)

Why Backup is Crucial

• Recover from failed upgrades, module conflicts, or server crashes
• Safely test changes on a staging site
• Protect your store from hacks and data corruption

Recommended read: PrestaShop Speed Optimization 2025 Guide

How to Backup Your PrestaShop Store

1. Backup Store Files

You can use FTP or your hosting control panel:

• FTP: Connect using FileZilla, navigate to your root folder (/public_html/), and download all files.
• cPanel: Use File Manager to compress and download your PrestaShop directory.

2. Backup MySQL Database

Using phpMyAdmin:

• Login to phpMyAdmin via hosting panel
• Select your store database
• Click Export → Quick → SQL → Go

You can also use command-line tools for advanced access:

mysqldump -u your_db_user -p your_db_name > backup-prestashop.sql

Restore Your PrestaShop Website

1. Restore Files

Upload the backup via FTP or cPanel and replace your current files with the backed-up version.

2. Restore the Database

Via phpMyAdmin:

• Navigate to phpMyAdmin
• Select the database and click Import
• Upload the .sql backup and click Go

Or use terminal:

mysql -u your_db_user -p your_db_name < backup-prestashop.sql

Pro Tips for Safer Backups

• Backup before major updates or installations
• Store backups on cloud drives (Google Drive, Dropbox, S3)
• Keep at least 3 dated versions
• Use modules like PrestaBackup or 1-Click Upgrade

Read more: How to Create a PrestaShop Staging Environment