This routine verifies that existing backup systems on a DirectAdmin-managed VPS are functioning correctly. It confirms that backups are being created as expected and are usable, without creating new backups or performing recovery.
Scope and intent
- Confirm backups are running and completing successfully
- Verify backup integrity at a high level
- Detect silent backup failures early
- Reduce risk before updates, changes, or incidents
When to run this routine
- On a periodic maintenance cadence
- Before performing risky or irreversible changes
- After backup configuration changes
- When preparing for update or incident recovery readiness
Prerequisites
- Root or administrative access
- Access to backup storage locations or destinations
- Basic awareness of the configured backup method
1. Confirm backup jobs are enabled
- Verify scheduled backups are enabled in DirectAdmin or system configuration
- Confirm backup frequency matches expectations
- Ensure no recent changes disabled or altered backup jobs
2. Verify recent backup completion
- Identify the most recent completed backup
- Confirm the backup finished without errors or interruptions
- Check timestamps align with the expected schedule
3. Validate backup contents at a high level
- Confirm expected components are present (system, users, domains, mail)
- Verify backup file sizes appear reasonable and non-zero
- Ensure no obvious omissions or partial archives
4. Check backup storage health
- Confirm backup storage is accessible
- Verify sufficient free space remains
- Ensure retention policies are not causing premature deletion
5. Review backup-related logs
- Scan logs for warnings, failures, or repeated retries
- Confirm no authentication or permission errors are present
- Watch for increasing backup duration over time
6. Spot-check restorability (non-destructive)
- Confirm backups are in a restorable format
- Verify archive integrity if tooling allows without extraction
- Do not restore data during this routine
7. Record verification results
- Document the date and reason this routine was run
- Record the last known-good backup point
- Note any anomalies requiring follow-up
Completion criteria
- Recent backups exist and completed successfully
- Backup storage is healthy and accessible
- No unexplained errors remain
Next step — based on your current state:
- If backup integrity is uncertain, proceed to Non‑Destructive Restore Test Routine.
- If this check precedes a risky action, proceed to Pre‑Infrastructure Change Safety Checklist.
- If backups are healthy, return to normal operations or continue scheduled maintenance.