UltraBackup review
Open-source backups with compression, restoration, retention, and remote uploads.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
UltraBackup is an open-source Minecraft backup plugin for self-hosted Java Edition servers running Bukkit, Spigot, or Paper. It creates full-server backups rather than limiting protection to individual worlds or files. The plugin is aimed at server operators who want configurable local backups, remote storage options, and complete-server restoration within their own hosting environment.
Its backup workflow covers several practical controls. UltraBackup can save worlds automatically before creating a backup, apply configurable ZIP compression levels, show backup progress, and perform operations asynchronously. File and folder exclusion lists help narrow what is included, while configurable retention and deletion rules remove older backups according to the selected retention count. These features make it suitable for operators who need more control than a simple copy operation provides.
Backups can remain on the server or be uploaded to Google Drive using OAuth 2.0, SFTP, or FTP. The plugin is installed in the server’s plugins directory, so setup fits a self-hosted Java server workflow rather than a hosted backup service. Automated scheduled backups are a future feature; the documented approach is to use an external cron job or scheduler plugin. UltraBackup is therefore a strong fit for operators comfortable managing plugins and scheduling infrastructure themselves. Servers needing built-in scheduling, selective restoration, or support for platforms outside Bukkit, Spigot, and Paper should choose a different backup tool.
UltraBackup pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Saves worlds before backup and tracks backup progress.
- Supports ZIP compression, retention rules, exclusions, and restoration.
- Uploads backups to Google Drive, SFTP, or FTP.
- Where it doesn't
- Automated scheduled backups are a future feature.
- Restoration is limited to complete server backups.
- Requires a self-hosted Bukkit, Spigot, or Paper server.
UltraBackup fact sheet, pricing and score →
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