If you run a business website, security should be at the top of your priority list. Cyber threats aren’t just something that happens to big corporations—small businesses are just as vulnerable, if not more so. With cyber threats becoming more and more advanced and sneaky, we wanted to share some tips on how to keep your website safe online! Here are five essential website security tips you should implement ASAP.
1. Keep Your Software Updated
One of the easiest ways hackers get into websites is through outdated software. Whether it’s your content management system, plugins, or themes, running outdated versions leaves you vulnerable to attacks. Make it a habit to check for updates regularly and enable automatic updates whenever possible. This simple step can block out a lot of common cyber threats before they even get a chance to attack.
2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
I know...it’s tempting to use the same password for everything. But weak passwords are one of the biggest security risks out there. Make sure your website’s login credentials are strong and unique. Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Better yet, use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely. Also, enable two-factor authentication whenever possible for an extra layer of security.
3. Invest in an SSL Certificate
An SSL certificate isn’t just for e-commerce sites, it’s a must for every website. SSL encrypts the data transmitted between your website and its visitors, keeping it safe from hackers. Plus, Google prioritizes secure sites in search rankings, so having that little padlock icon in the address bar helps with SEO.
4. Regularly Back Up Your Website
Even with the best security measures in place, things can still go wrong. That’s why regular backups are a lifesaver. If your site gets hacked or crashes due to an update gone wrong, you’ll be able to restore it quickly. Automate backups so they happen daily, and store copies both on your server and offsite (like in cloud storage). This way, you’ll always have a clean version of your site ready to go.
5. Limit User Access
Not everyone on your team needs full admin access to your website. The more people who have access, the greater the risk of accidental security breaches. Assign roles carefully—give users only the permissions they need to do their job. Also, regularly review user accounts and remove access for anyone who no longer needs it. This simple step can drastically reduce your website’s exposure to threats.
Website security isn’t something you can set and forget. Hackers are always looking for new ways to break in, so staying proactive is key. By following these five security tips, you’ll be putting up strong defenses against cyber threats while keeping your website safe for your business and your customers. Need help securing your site? Our team specializes in building secure, high performing websites—let’s chat!