How to Back Up CMS Content
BeginnerQuick Answer
TL;DR
Back up CMS content using automated scheduled backups combined with manual exports before major changes. For self-hosted CMS platforms, back up both the database and file system (media, configuration files). For headless CMS platforms, use the platform's export API or CLI tools to download content as JSON or NDJSON. Store backups in at least two locations, encrypt them, and test restores regularly.
Key Takeaways
- Self-hosted CMS (WordPress, Drupal) requires backing up both the database and the file system separately
- Headless and SaaS CMS platforms provide export APIs or CLI tools — use them to download your content as structured data
- Store backups in at least two geographically separate locations; encrypt them at rest
- Test your restore process regularly — an untested backup is not a backup