Short answer
You can protect your website from hackers by using strong passwords, keeping software updated, installing an SSL certificate, keeping regular backups and limiting who has access to your site. These simple habits address many of the most common ways websites are compromised.
Start with strong access controls
Many website security problems begin with weak or reused passwords. Using strong, unique passwords for your hosting account, control panel and website admin area is one of the simplest and most effective steps you can take.
Keep your website software updated
If you run a platform like WordPress, outdated themes and plugins are a common way that hackers gain access. Keeping everything updated closes known security gaps before they can be exploited.
- Update your website platform, themes and plugins regularly
- Remove plugins or themes you are no longer using
- Only install software from trusted sources
Use SSL and other built-in protections
An SSL certificate encrypts data passing between your website and its visitors, which helps protect sensitive information such as login details. SSL is available on hosting plans, and it is one of the most straightforward security measures to put in place.
Prepare for the worst with backups
Even with strong precautions, no website is completely immune to attempted attacks. Keeping regular backups means that if your site is compromised, you can restore a clean version rather than starting from scratch. Our guide on how to back up your website explains the process in more detail.
- Back up your website files and database regularly
- Store backups somewhere separate from your live website
- Test that you know how to restore a backup before you need to
Getting extra support
If you manage a business website reaching customers in places like Berlin, Lima or Tokyo, it is worth reviewing your security setup periodically. Our website security page outlines available tools, and support is available via /contact if you have concerns about your site.
Secure your website today
Add SSL, backups and security tools to keep your website protected.
View Security Options