How website restores work

May 9, 2026 • Backups

A website restore takes files or database data from a previous backup and applies it back to the hosting account.

When to restore

The website broke after an update.

Important files were deleted.

Content was changed incorrectly.

A malware cleanup requires rollback.

Support recommends restoring from a known good point.

Step 1: Identify the problem time

Work out when the website was last working properly. This helps choose a restore point before the issue started.

Step 2: Decide what needs restoring

Sometimes only files need restoring. Other times the database is needed. A full restore is not always required.

Step 3: Take care with newer changes

If you restore an older database, content added after that backup may be lost.

Step 4: Run the restore

Host Luma support can help perform the safest restore option for your situation.

Step 5: Test the website

After restore, check the homepage, key pages, contact forms, WordPress admin and any important functionality.

Important notes

Do not restore blindly. Choosing the wrong restore point can undo useful changes.

Need help?

If you are unsure about any step, contact Host Luma support before making changes. We can help check the correct settings and guide you through the process.