Image Shield & Auto-Backup protects your original images from being permanently overwritten by image optimization and compression plugins. Every uploaded image is automatically backed up to a hidden, secure vault before any compression process runs. If image quality is reduced, you can restore the original file with a single click directly from the Media Library.

Features

• Automatic backup of original images before compression
• Hidden and protected vault with randomized folder name
• One-click restore directly from the Media Library
• Backup before WordPress image editing operations
• Automatic thumbnail regeneration after restore
• Automatic cleanup of backups when media is deleted
• Backup manager for viewing and managing stored backups
• Restore activity log (last 50 actions)
• Disk usage monitoring with configurable warning threshold
• AJAX security protection with nonce verification
• Compatible with Smush, ShortPixel, Imagify, Kraken.io, reSmush.it, WP Rocket, and other optimization plugins

Requirements

• WordPress 5.0 or later
• PHP 7.2 or later
• Valid AUTH_KEY and SECURE_AUTH_KEY in wp-config.php
• Write permissions for the wp-content/uploads/ directory
• Administrator access for plugin configuration and backup management

Instructions

Installation

1. Download the plugin ZIP package.
2. Navigate to Plugins → Add New → Upload Plugin.
3. Upload the ZIP file and click Install Now.
4. Activate the plugin.

Using Image Shield

1. Upload images normally through the WordPress Media Library.
2. Image Shield automatically creates a secure backup before optimization plugins can modify the file.
3. If image quality becomes unsatisfactory, open the image in Media → Library.
4. Locate the Image Shield section in the attachment details.
5. Click Restore Original to recover the original image.
6. Thumbnails will be regenerated automatically.

Managing Backups

1. Open Media → Image Shield.
2. View backup statistics and vault information.
3. Review recent restore activity.
4. Delete individual backups or purge all backups when needed.
5. Configure automatic backup, automatic deletion, and disk usage warning settings.

Important Note

Only images uploaded after the plugin is activated will have backup protection. Existing media files are not backed up retroactively.