Protect your website and visitors by following these essential security practices.
Use Strong Passwords
- Use unique passwords for every account
- Make passwords at least 12 characters with mixed case, numbers, and symbols
- Use a password manager to store credentials securely
- Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible
Keep Software Updated
- Regularly update your CMS (WordPress, Joomla, etc.)
- Keep all plugins, themes, and extensions current
- Remove unused plugins and themes
- Enable automatic updates when available
Install an SSL Certificate
- Use HTTPS for all pages on your site
- Install a free Let's Encrypt SSL certificate (available in cPanel)
- Force HTTPS redirects in your .htaccess file
Regular Backups
- Create regular backups of your files and databases
- Store backups in multiple locations (off-site and local)
- Test backup restoration periodically
File Permissions
- Set directories to 755 and files to 644
- Never use 777 permissions
- Protect sensitive files like configuration files
Monitor Your Site
- Check error logs regularly for suspicious activity
- Review file changes and new files
- Monitor login attempts
- Use security plugins or scanning services
Additional Protection
- Use password protection for admin directories
- Block malicious IP addresses
- Disable directory browsing
- Implement a web application firewall (WAF)
