What to back up
World folders, server.properties, whitelist/ops/bans, plugin or mod config directories, and datapacks. For modpacks, include the full instance if you cannot recreate the exact pack version quickly.
Stop or flush before copying
Prefer stopping the server—or at least forcing a save flush—before copying live world files. Copying a world mid-write is a common way to create a backup that will not load.
Cadence
Daily backups are a sensible default for active SMPs; keep several generations. Take an extra backup before major plugin/mod updates or world edits.
Restore drill
On a test port or temporary server: restore the archive, start, join, confirm inventories and plugin data. Do this once before you need it in a panic.
Managed hosting note
Panel scheduled backups help, but still download critical archives occasionally. Monolith’s Germany game hosting includes panel backup workflows—use them and verify.
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