Managing and Backing Up Your Server Files Securely

Data integrity is the foundation of a great server. Whether you are adding a new modpack, editing plugin configuration files, or ensuring your players don't lose progress if something breaks, understanding how to manage your files securely is essential.

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1. Web File Manager vs. SFTP

Our web panel includes a built-in file manager, but it is designed for quick tasks. Knowing when to use SFTP will save you time and prevent corrupted transfers.

• Use the Web File Manager for: Quick configuration text changes, deleting a single file, or uploading small plugins under 50MB.
• Use SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) for: Uploading entire world folders, downloading backups, transferring modpacks, or managing directories with thousands of files.

How to Connect via SFTP:

1. Download an SFTP client like FileZilla or Cyberduck.
2. On your server panel, navigate to the Settings or SFTP Details tab to find your connection details (Host, Port, and Username).
3. Open your SFTP client, enter those details, and use your panel password to connect.

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2. Upgrading Server Versions Safely

When a major new Minecraft version drops, rushing to update without a plan can permanently corrupt your world files. Always use this exact order of operations:

1. Take a Manual Backup: Never rely on luck. Create a full backup of your server before changing anything.
2. Update the Server Jar: Change your server software version in the panel settings.
3. Update Dependencies First: Before booting up, make sure core layout plugins like ProtocolLib, LuckPerms, or Geyser are updated to support the new version.
4. Boot and Monitor: Start the server and watch the console closely for errors or severe missing block warnings.

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3. Automating Your Backups

Do not rely on remembering to click "Backup" every day. Set up an automated schedule through the panel:

1. Navigate to the Schedules tab in your control panel.
2. Create a new schedule called "Daily Backup".
3. Configure the cron expression for your preferred time (e.g., every night at 3:00 AM).
4. Add a new task to that schedule and set the action to Create Backup.
5. Set it to lock older vital backups so they don't get automatically rotated out or overwritten.