HostGator.com » Support Portal

Can I use FTP as an off server backup?

We don't recommend it, as it can be considered a "file dump" which is against our TOS.

What is file dumping? - A large number of files that are transferred from one place to another without any particular organization, as in copying media or backup files from your computer to our server.

Article Comments

William
Would downloading all the site files from a hostgator.com server to my computer (in order to back up my site) be a violation of TOS?

HostGator
No, that is not a violation of our TOS.

If you download and upload tens of thousands of files every day, or save more than one full backup file on the server, then you will be in violation.

Dave
Is it possinble to use a remote back-up service such as Iron Mountain to handle backiups of our dedicated server?

HostGator
Yes.

Sean
Is it okay to have a large backup in one zip file in the public_ftp?

HostGator
Yes, the backup must be a backup of the same cPanel, and you may only store the one backup.

Mark
I am a reseller and have a number of hosting accounts. Is it possible to run a cron that will backup and ftp the zip off-site and then delete the file, say once a week? Or, can I set my backup server to ftp in on a schedule and download the data? I can figure out how to download the public_html directory, but where would I get the databases and email information?

HostGator
It is very possible to run a cron once a week; however, you must create or supply the script that performs these amazing tasks.

The best plan is to setup a cron which generates full backups (which include web files, emails, databases, and every cPanel setting). Then download and erase the full backup.

Again, HostGator cannot provide a script which does these things, but you are welcome to attempt your own solution.

Tim
Hi this is Tim,

I'm part of a Community of online Gamers, We like to make a backup of our server at least once a week to keep files and codes updated. if we had a zip or 7up of our maps to have a central location so all of our community can have the same copy of each file, as well as using it as a fast DL server, would that be in violation of the TOS?

Tim~

HostGator
You can save unlimited number of backup files on reseller, VPS, and dedicated. If you have one of those types of hosting, go for it.

The TOS says you can only make one backup of the same account on shared webhosting plans. If it is a backup of another server, then it is technically not allowed. Shared hosting plans must also remove all backup files before adding a new one.

HostGator
Thank you for your comments. Just a quick reminder that the comments on this page are not monitored by technical support staff, and that for support issues, it is best to contact us by live chat, phone or email so we can assist you right away.

Although comments are not monitored by technical support staff, they are moderated and read by technical writers. Comments will need to be approved by a moderator before appearing.

Our technical writers do read the comments periodically for the purposes of updating the articles, and do appreciate your feedback, suggestions and corrections to the articles themselves, as well as any suggestions or tips for readers of this article. However, support questions posted here are not guaranteed to be replied to in a timely manner or at all. For support issues, it is best to contact our support staff instead by live chat, email or phone.



Your comments help us keep the knowledge base updated. This is not a medium for support. If you have questions or need help, please contact us via email, phone or live chat for fast assistance.

Post Comment