> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.oxygenserv.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.oxygenserv.com/en/dashboard/creer-une-sauvegarde-et-la-restaurer-sur-son-serveur.md).

# Create a backup and restore it

Step-by-step guide to create a backup and restore it on your Oxygenserv server.

{% hint style="info" %}
Backups are useful before an update, adding a mod, or a major config change.
{% endhint %}

### Objective

Create a **file backup**, then the **restore** if needed.

### Step-by-step guide

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
**Create a backup**

Click on **Create a backup**.

<figure><img src="https://2305008112-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Ftkl0lsnxYxJPTz5fY4IW%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-c5be81d1aff708076a4e15af66c1e9a22da7a5fe%2Fimage_54.png?alt=media" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Fill in:

* **Name** (e.g. `Pre-update-2026-01-06`)
* **Files and folders to ignore** (optional)
* **Lock** (optional)

Click on **Create** to start the backup.

{% hint style="info" %}
The **lock** prevents accidental deletion.\
Enable it for an important “restore point” backup.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
You have a **limited number of backups**.\
If needed, delete an old backup before creating a new one.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Restore a backup**

In **Backups**, find the backup to use then click **Restore**.

<figure><img src="https://2305008112-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Ftkl0lsnxYxJPTz5fY4IW%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-5be5981f8b0ad6f9f7e3ecca9f41f83f9dd9bbd6%2Fimage_67.png?alt=media" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

{% hint style="warning" %}
A restore **overwrites** replaces the current files with those from the backup.\
Make a “before restore” backup if you are unsure.
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

### Common issues

* **Unable to create a backup** : check that you have not reached the limit. Delete an unneeded backup.
* **Backup stuck / very long** : try again later if the server is under heavy load.
* **After restore, the server won't start** : restore an older backup, then contact support with the time and names of the backups.

### FAQ

#### Do I need to stop the server before a backup or restore?

For the **restore**, it's generally preferable.\
It limits files being written (depending on the game and plugins).

#### What is “Folders to ignore” for?

To exclude large or regenerable folders.\
Typical examples: `cache`, `logs`, temporary files.

#### What should I send to support if a restore fails?

The **backup name**, and a screenshot of the error message if present.\
Then: [Contact Oxygenserv support (ticket dashboard and Discord)](/en/dashboard/contacter-le-support-oxygenserv-ticket-dashboard-et-discord.md).