Automating Backups with schedules in pterodactyl

Automating backups on your Pterodactyl server ensures your data is always safe without needing to create manual backups. Follow these steps to set up automated backups using the built-in scheduling feature:

Step 1: Access Your Server

1. Log in to the Pterodactyl panel.
2. Select the server for which you want to automate backups.

Step 2: Navigate to Schedules

1. Click on the Schedules tab in the server management menu.
2. If no schedules are configured, click Create Schedule to set up your first automation.

Step 3: Create a New Schedule

1. Provide a name for your schedule, e.g., "Automated Backup."
2. Set the desired frequency for the backup:
   • Minutes: Enter the interval in minutes or leave as * for every minute.
   • Hours: Specify the hours, use /12 for every 12 hours, or leave as * for every hour.
   • Days: Define the days of the month (e.g., 1 for the first day).
   • Months: Choose the months or leave as * for every month.
   • Day of Week: Specify days (e.g., 0 for Sunday) or leave as * for every day.
3. Ensure the schedule is Enabled before proceeding.

Step 4: Add a Backup Task

1. After creating the schedule, click New Task to add a task.
2. In the Action dropdown, select Backup Server.
3. Configure the task:
   
   • Ignore files: Optionally, exclude specific files or directories.
4. Set the task's delay to 0 unless you need the backup to occur after other scheduled actions.

Step 5: Save and Test

1. Save the task and verify that it appears under the schedule.
2. Test the schedule:
   • Manually trigger the schedule by pressing Run Now inside the schedule, to confirm the backup process.
   • Check the Backups tab to ensure a new backup is created.

Step 6: Monitor and Manage Backups

1. Navigate to the Backups tab to view, download, or delete backups.
2. Ensure your server’s storage limits can accommodate the number of backups. Consider using an external storage solution if necessary.

You should still download your backups to store them offsite to maintain peace of mind that your data cannot be lost.