For maximum security, you can configure Plesk to store backups on your own remote server via SFTP (SSH File Transfer Protocol). Unlike FTP, SFTP encrypts both authentication and file transfers, making it a more secure choice. This guide shows you how to set up SFTP storage for your subscription backups.
Accessing SFTP storage settings
- Log in to Plesk.
- Go to Websites & Domains and open Backup & Restore.
- In the Backup Manager, click Remote Storage Settings.
- Select SFTP Backup.
Configuring SFTP storage
Fill in the fields as follows:
- SFTP server hostname or IP * – enter the hostname or IP of your own remote SFTP server.
- Directory for backup files storage – specify the path where backups should be stored. For example:
/backups/plesk/. - SFTP username * – the login username for the SFTP account.
- SFTP password (or key authentication, if supported by your setup).
Fields marked with * are required. After entering your details, click OK to save the configuration. Plesk will test the connection to verify access.
Creating and scheduling backups to SFTP storage
- In the Backup Manager, click Back Up or Schedule.
- In the Store in section, select SFTP storage instead of server storage.
- Set your backup preferences (full or incremental, what to include, retention, etc.).
- Click OK to run or schedule the backup.
Restoring from SFTP backups
- Open Backup Manager.
- Select a backup stored in SFTP storage.
- Click Restore and choose what you want to restore.
