Website Security Basics Every Small Business Should Check
A straightforward security routine covering updates, access, backups, HTTPS and incident preparation.
Keep the software you depend on supported
Track the content-management system, plugins, themes, server software and libraries your website uses. Remove components you no longer need, apply vendor security updates promptly and test important functionality after updates.
Protect accounts and access
Use unique passwords and multi-factor authentication where available. Remove former staff and vendor accounts, avoid shared administrator logins, and grant each person only the access needed for their role. Keep domain, hosting and CMS account recovery details current.
Back up and test recovery
Keep backups of files and databases, and understand how long they are retained and where they are stored. A backup is only useful if it can be restored, so periodically test recovery and document who can approve a restore.
Prepare for a security issue
Know how to contact your hosting provider, disable compromised accounts, restore a clean copy and review logs. If customer or regulated data may be involved, follow the applicable legal and incident-response requirements and seek qualified advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is an SSL certificate enough to secure a website?
No. HTTPS protects data in transit, but software updates, account security, backups, monitoring and sound application configuration are also important.
How often should I update website software?
Apply security updates promptly according to vendor guidance. Test updates in a staging environment when available, especially for complex websites or business-critical functions.
