Ever had that sinking feeling when your WordPress site crashes—hours of work gone in a flash? Whether it’s a server glitch, a bad update, or a hack, losing your site is a nightmare. That’s where UpdraftPlus comes in—a free WordPress plugin that’s saved over 3 million sites (per WordPress.org as of March 24, 2025). At WP Host Guru, I’m all about sharing tools like this to keep your site safe while raising funds for my son’s therapies and education. So, what’s UpdraftPlus all about? How does it work, and should you grab the free or premium version? Let’s dive into its features, setup, and even the Premium GPL option floating around.
UpdraftPlus is the world’s most trusted backup plugin, blending simplicity with power. It’s got a free version on WordPress.org and a premium upgrade at UpdraftPlus.com packed with extras. There’s also a “Premium GPL” version some sites offer for free—more on that later. Whether you’re a blogger, shop owner, or newbie, this WordPress backup plugin has your back. Let’s explore why it’s a must-have.
What Is UpdraftPlus? Your Site’s Safety Net
UpdraftPlus is a WordPress plugin that backs up, restores, and migrates your site with ease. Launched in 2012 by TeamUpdraft, it’s earned a 4.8/5 rating on WordPress.org for good reason. It protects your files, database, themes, and plugins—everything that makes your site tick. With over 3 million active installs, it’s a go-to for everyone from Microsoft to solo bloggers.
Why’s it critical? WordPress sites face risks daily—hacks hit 30,000 sites a year (per WPBeginner). UpdraftPlus lets you schedule backups, store them off-site, and restore with a click. It’s not just a tool—it’s peace of mind.
Key Features of UpdraftPlus: Free and Premium
UpdraftPlus shines with features for all users. Here’s what you get with the free version, plus premium perks.
Free Version Features
- Manual & Scheduled Backups: Back up files and databases anytime or on a set schedule (daily, weekly, etc.).
- Cloud Storage: Save to Dropbox, Google Drive, Amazon S3, FTP, or email.
- One-Click Restore: Roll back to a previous backup easily.
- Incremental Backups: Only backs up changes since the last full backup—saves time and space.
- Migration Tool: Move your site to a new domain or host (basic single-site moves).
Premium Version Features
- More Storage Options: Adds Microsoft OneDrive, Azure, Backblaze, SFTP, and UpdraftVault (1GB included).
- Pre-Update Backups: Auto-backs up before core, plugin, or theme updates.
- Multisite Support: Backs up WordPress networks securely.
- Cloning: Creates test sites or migrates with advanced tools like UpdraftClone.
- Database Encryption: Secures sensitive data in backups.
- Premium Support: Direct help from the developers.
The free version is robust, but UpdraftPlus features in the premium tier take it to the next level for pros or complex sites.
Setting Up UpdraftPlus: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting started is a breeze. Here’s how to set up the free version.
Step 1: Install and Activate
- Log into your WordPress dashboard.
- Go to Plugins > Add New.
- Search “UpdraftPlus,” click Install Now, then Activate.
- Find “UpdraftPlus Backups” in your menu—you’re ready!
Step 2: Run Your First Backup
- Click UpdraftPlus Backups > Backup / Restore.
- Hit Backup Now, choose files and database, then start it.
- Watch the progress bar—it’s done when it says “Backup complete.”
Step 3: Connect Cloud Storage
- Go to Settings tab.
- Pick a service (e.g., Google Drive), authenticate, and save.
- Future backups will upload there automatically.
Step 4: Schedule It
- In Settings, set a schedule—e.g., weekly files, daily database.
- Choose how many backups to keep (e.g., 2).
- Save, and it runs on autopilot.
Need to restore? Just go to Backup / Restore, pick a backup, and click Restore. Simple as that!
The GPL Connection: Free and Premium Explained
UpdraftPlus operates under the GNU General Public License (GPL).
What’s the GPL?
The GPL is WordPress’s open-source license—code is free to use, tweak, or share. UpdraftPlus’s free version is fully GPL and downloadable from WordPress.org. The premium version’s code is also GPL, but its advanced features rely on paid services (like UpdraftVault or support).
Premium GPL Version
Some sites offer a “Premium GPL” version of UpdraftPlus for free. This is the premium code—legally shareable under GPL—but often “nulled” to bypass license checks. It’s tempting, but there’s a catch (see below).
Benefits of UpdraftPlus: Who’s It For?
UpdraftPlus fits all WordPress users. Here’s how it helps.
Bloggers
Schedule backups to Google Drive and restore if a post vanishes—keeps your content safe.
E-Commerce Owners
Pre-update backups save your store if an update flops. Multisite support suits complex shops.
Small Businesses
Encrypt backups and store them off-site—protects client data from crashes or hacks.
Beginners
No tech skills needed—just click and go. It’s a free WordPress backup plugin with pro potential.
Risks and Cautions: What to Watch Out For
UpdraftPlus is great, but here are some pitfalls.
Free Version Limits
No multisite or pre-update backups—fine for simple sites, less so for pros.
“Nulled” Premium Risks
- Malware: Nulled GPL versions from shady sites might hide viruses. Sucuri reports 1 in 10 free downloads carry threats.
- No Updates: You’re stuck with an old version—missed patches leave you vulnerable.
- Server-Side Gaps: Premium features like UpdraftVault need a license key, so nulled versions fall short.
Resource Use
Big sites on cheap hosts might slow during backups—schedule for off-hours.
Stick to official sources for safety.
UpdraftPlus Premium GPL: Free Download Option
Yes, there’s a UpdraftPlus Premium GPL version out there—sites like “weadown.com” or “gplastra.com” offer it free, claiming GPL rights. It’s the premium code, often nulled to skip licensing.
How It Works
- Legal Basis: GPL allows sharing the code, so they’re not breaking that rule.
- Nulled Twist: Modifications bypass the license check, unlocking premium features without paying.
- Monetization: Ads or downloads fund these sites, not sales.
Risks
- Security: No guarantee it’s clean—malware could lurk.
- No Support: You’re on your own—no developer help.
- Incomplete Features: Server-side perks (e.g., UpdraftVault) won’t work without a key.
Download Link & Disclaimer
Want to try it? Here’s a sample link from a third-party site:
Download UpdraftPlus Premium GPL
Disclaimer: This is an “as-is” GPL version from an external source, not me or TeamUpdraft. I don’t offer support, updates, or guarantees—it might contain risks like malware or outdated code. For safety and full features, buy from UpdraftPlus.com or use the free version from WordPress.org.
Advanced Tips for UpdraftPlus
Maximize it with these tricks.
Automate Everything
In Settings, schedule daily database and weekly file backups—set it and forget it.
Add Security
Premium users: enable database encryption under Expert Settings for extra protection.
Table: Quick Tips
| Task | Why It Helps | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Schedule Backups | Keeps data current | Daily/Weekly |
| Test Restores | Confirms backups work | Monthly |
| Use Cloud Storage | Off-site safety | Always |
| Purge Old Backups | Saves space | As needed |
These keep UpdraftPlus humming.
Real-World Wins: UpdraftPlus in Action
Here’s how it’s saved users.
Case Study 1: The Food Blogger
Sara’s recipe site crashed after a plugin update. UpdraftPlus’s free restore got her back in 10 minutes—readers never noticed.
Case Study 2: The Online Store
Mike’s WooCommerce shop got hacked. Premium’s encrypted backup and migration tool moved him to a new host—sales resumed in a day.
Example 3: The Kid Coder
Lily, 14, used the free version on her art blog. A server fail wiped her host, but UpdraftPlus on Dropbox saved her portfolio—her first coding win.
These show UpdraftPlus’s real value.
Why UpdraftPlus Rules Backups
UpdraftPlus isn’t just a WordPress backup plugin—it’s a lifeline. The free version rivals paid tools, while premium adds pro-grade power. At WP Host Guru, sharing it helps my son’s care, and its GPL roots keep it accessible. The Premium GPL option exists, but official sources are safer.
Get It Now
- Free Version: Download from WordPress.org
- Premium: Buy from UpdraftPlus.com (starts at $70/year)
- Premium GPL: See the link above—but proceed with caution.
Whether you’re safeguarding a blog or a business, UpdraftPlus delivers. Pick your version and sleep easier tonight!
