I know, I know. But this makes me feel better.

After ignoring repeated requests from my host upgrading my control panel (and, apparently all services) can no longer be put off. So I'm putting in the ticket tomorrow and I will be out of commission for up to 2 weeks.

Today I will create the backup (.txt) file for settings. Not so much worried about the settings, but does this back up posts too. Or should I also perform the WP backup?

A related question, when I run the settings backup, does the *.txt file get placed on the server or am I prompted? Never mind this question - trial and error gave me the answer.

Sorry about these questions. This ordeal makes me a little nervous and

So if any of you can alleviate my fears (even just a little), I'll feel much better

Thank you
Brian

My favorite tool for backing up a complete site is Backup Buddy which allows you to restore the entire site fairly quickly but it does cost $.

The txt settings is ONLY the Atahualpa settings. It is NOT the posts, images, etc, etc. To get a complete backup you either need to use a tool like I mentioned above or

• Use a plugin like WP DbManager to backup the database
• Export the Atahualpa settings txt file
• At least copy the wp-content folder and the wp-config.php file to your computer
• You could, just to be sure, download the entire site to your computer to give you piece of mind.

To restore you would again use the restore process for the tool I mentioned or

• Install WordPress on your new site
• Install the DBManager plugin and restore your database
• Upload the theme, plugins, images, and any other files you need.

If you are not familiar with any of the plugins or software mentioned I would suggest giving yourself a bit of time to become familiar with them.

All that said when they upgrade you control panel did they say you would lose your site? This will perhaps be seamless and you won't have to use the backup but you can't be too safe.

I hope it all works well for you.

@lmilesw

Thanks very much for the suggestions. I did some experimenting. Using a different domain, I used the settings back up and included wp backup. Went to other domain, uploaded the files and it worked perfectly.

It was a relief.

During the downtime, I'm going to explore your suggestions.

Thanks again.

Brian