Restoring Quarantined Files
What This Covers
This guide explains how to restore files that have been placed in quarantine.
Restoring allows you to return a file to its original location if it is needed for your site to function correctly.
When to Restore a File
You may need to restore a file if:
- your site functionality is affected after quarantining
- a plugin or theme stops working
- you determine the file is safe and required
Restoration returns the file to its original state and location.
How Restoration Works
When a file is restored:
- it is moved back to its original path
- its original filename is preserved
- it becomes active again within your site
This effectively reverses the quarantine action.
How to Restore a File
The file will be returned to its original location immediately.
What to Expect After Restoring
After restoring a file:
This is expected and reflects the current state of your site.
Verifying a Restoration
After restoring a file:
- Test the affected part of your site
- Confirm functionality is working as expected
- Return to the Scan page and re-run a scan
This ensures both functionality and security are understood.
When Not to Restore
Do not restore a file if:
- it is clearly unnecessary or outdated
- it exposes sensitive data
- it was intentionally removed for security reasons
Only restore files you understand and trust.
Common Issues
File Restored but Issue Persists
- confirm the correct file was restored
- check for caching or server-level delays
- verify no additional files were affected
File Reappears in Scan Results
This is expected.
The underlying issue has not changed, only the file’s location.
You may need to:
- remove the file permanently
- secure it properly
- accept the risk if intentional
Restoration Fails
- check file permissions
- ensure the original path still exists
- verify hosting restrictions are not blocking the action
Tips
- Restore one file at a time
- Test immediately after restoring
- Avoid repeated quarantine/restore cycles without understanding the issue
What to Do Next
After restoring a file:
- Review why the file was flagged
- Decide whether to secure or remove it permanently
- Continue monitoring your scan results