Remote destination
Configure SFTP for secure WordPress backups.
SFTP transfers backups over SSH, making it a better choice than plain FTP for production sites, private data and agency workflows.
What you need
- SFTP host name or IP address.
- Port, usually 22.
- Username and password, or an SSH private key if supported by your setup.
- Remote folder path for backup archives.
- Enough disk space on the remote server.
Configuration Steps
- Open StifLi Backup Tools > Remote Destinations.
- Select SFTP.
- Enter host, port and username.
- Choose password or key-based authentication.
- Set the remote backup folder.
- Choose retention limits.
- Save and test the connection.
- Run a manual backup and verify the file on the SFTP server.
Recommended Settings
| Setting | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Authentication | Use SSH keys when available and keep the key dedicated to backups. |
| Folder | Use a folder outside any public web directory. |
| Permissions | Grant access only to the backup folder, not the whole server. |
| Retention | Use automatic cleanup and monitor remote disk usage. |
Troubleshooting
- If login fails, confirm the SFTP user can log in from your hosting environment.
- If uploads fail, check folder permissions and disk quota.
- If key authentication fails, verify key format, passphrase support and allowed public keys on the server.