Before proceeding with DNS backup operations:
- Test these steps in a non-production environment first
- Backup your current JetBackup configuration
- Check JetBackup's official documentation for the most up-to-date instructions
- Ensure you have selected the appropriate maintenance window
In this guide, we'll walk you through backing up your DNS zones using JetBackup in cPanel. DNS zones are crucial records that tell the internet how to find your website, so maintaining regular backups is essential for disaster recovery.
Key Terms You Should Know
- DNS Zone: A database that contains the mappings between domain names and IP addresses for a specific namespace
- On-demand Backup: A point-in-time snapshot you can create immediately, useful before making system changes
- tar.gz: A compressed archive format commonly used in Linux systems
Prerequisites
- Active cPanel account with JetBackup access
- Appropriate permissions (see table below)
- Sufficient storage space for backups
Step-by-Step Backup Process
1. Access JetBackup
- Log into cPanel
- Navigate to the Files section
- Click on the JetBackup icon
2. Accept User Agreement
- Review the User and Privacy Policy Agreement
- Check the "I Agree" boxes for each section
- Click "Continue to Panel"
3. Navigate to DNS Backups
- Look for the "Domains" option (Note: Previously called "Zones" before v5.3.0)
- Identify your domain's DNS by the map pointer symbol
4. Select and Download Backup
- Choose your domain from the list
- Optional: Click "Choose Other Backups" to select a different backup date
- Wait for the backup to complete
- Click the "Download" button when ready
Extracting Your Backup
Linux/macOS (Terminal)
tar -xzf download_$username_1731300214_24702.tar.gzWindows (GUI)
- Right-click the .tar.gz file
- Select "Extract All..." using 7-Zip or similar software
- Choose destination folder
- Click "Extract"
Windows (Command Prompt with 7-Zip)
"C:\Program Files\7-Zip\7z.exe" x download_$username_1731300214_24702.tar.gz
"C:\Program Files\7-Zip\7z.exe" x download_$username_1731300214_24702.tarMonitoring Backup Progress
For large DNS zones, backups might take longer to complete. Use the "Alerts" option in JetBackup to monitor the backup status and receive notifications when the process completes.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Backup Takes Too Long: Check your network connection and try during off-peak hours
- Download Fails: Clear browser cache and try again, or use wget/curl command line tools
- Extraction Errors: Verify the download completed successfully before attempting extraction
Best Practices
- Always verify backup integrity after downloading
- Store backups in multiple secure locations
- Document any custom DNS configurations separately
- Set up automated notifications for backup completion
