# How can I retrieve a single file from an UpdraftPlus backup?

This is also possible using the "External Files in the Media Library" plugin. Follow these steps:

1. Download the backup to your local computer.
2. Then upload it back to your hosting via FTP, but this time to the root directory of your WordPress project (where the `wp-config.php` file is located).
3. In the backend, go to Media > Add External Files > Local and select the directory.
4. Click "Import" next to the ZIP file, confirm the prompt, and wait until the import is complete.
5. Next, go to the Media Library in table view and click "Open ZIP" next to the file.
6. The plugin will then display the contents of the ZIP file. There, you can now locate the file and click "Import." This will save it to your media library, allowing you to use it again in your project.

## FAQ

I don’t see a ZIP file! Why?

You must first enable ZIP files in the plugin’s settings (https://plugins.thomaszwirner.de/externe-dateien-in-der-mediathek/ich-kann-keine-zip-dateien-hochladen/).

### Will the file overwrite the existing file when I unzip it?

No, that never happens because the plugin doesn’t allow it.

### Why can’t I access the backup directly without first downloading and then uploading it again?

That would also be possible, but it has a drawback: under Settings > External Files in the Media Library > Services > Local, you can check the box to display all WordPress-specific directories when viewing the local directory. Once this is enabled, when you go to Media Library > Add External Files > Local, the plugin actually loads all directories and files. However, depending on the project, there can be a very large number of them, which can either make it take a very long time to display them or cause a timeout.