Security Basics for Every Website Owner
SSL, Updates, Backups – the Essentials You Should Never Skip
- Markus Pichorner
TL;DR
Keep your website secure with SSL, regular updates, and reliable backups. Security doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be consistent.
Your website is more than a digital presence. It’s your brand’s credibility, your client data, and your entire business identity in one place. Yet security is often treated as an afterthought, something to fix after a breach, rather than before.
The truth is simple: website security isn’t complicated, but it’s essential. A few consistent practices can make the difference between smooth sailing and serious damage control.
SSL: The Non-Negotiable
If your site still runs on HTTP instead of HTTPS, it’s time for an upgrade. SSL certificates encrypt the connection between your website and your visitors, protecting sensitive data like passwords, forms, and payment details.
Beyond privacy, SSL builds trust. Modern browsers now warn users if a site isn’t secure. That red “Not Secure” message can turn visitors away instantly. On top of that, Google uses SSL as a ranking factor, meaning a secure site performs better in search results.
In short, SSL is non-negotiable, it’s the digital equivalent of locking your front door.
Updates: Your First Line of Defence
Every piece of software you use, WordPress, plugins, themes, evolves over time. Updates don’t just add new features, they patch security holes discovered by developers or hackers. Ignoring them leaves your site exposed.
We always recommend using a staging site to test major updates, automating minor ones, and checking in regularly. Outdated code is one of the biggest causes of website hacks, and it’s entirely preventable.
Backups: Your Safety Net
Even with the best security setup, things can still go wrong. That’s why backups are essential.
We use Duplicator Pro to create scheduled backups every few months, with both on-site and off-site copies. If something breaks, we can restore a website in minutes instead of days.
Having a reliable backup is peace of mind you only appreciate when you need it most.
The Mindset That Matters
Tools are only as strong as the habits behind them. Secure passwords, limited admin access, trusted plugins, and awareness go a long way.
Security isn’t just a technical topic, it’s a mindset of responsibility and consistency.