Naiba previously introducedAutomatically backup WordPress websites using pluginsToday, a friend asked about the difference between SQL files backed up by plugins and XML files exported from the WordPress backend.
In the Tools section of the left sidebar in the WordPress backend, there is an export function.
This function allows you to export most of your website's data, such as posts, pages, comments, custom fields, and entry information.
If using a database backup plugin, the exported file is an SQL file.
The biggest difference between these two methods is:
If your website has a large amount of data, the XML exported file has a high probability of reporting errors and failing to import. Additionally, it does not include plugin settings.
The SQL exported database file generally does not encounter import issues and contains all your website's information, including various plugin settings and plugin data.
Generally speaking, unless you want to thoroughly clean up your website's database, you can consider using XML export for backup. Otherwise, it is recommended to back up the database.