Website Security
These days you can’t be too careful when it comes to website security. If you’re a website techie or guru, you can skip this article because you already know this, or at least you should. If you are just the average business person with a website or are considering having one built, then read on.
There are two basic pieces of security your website must have: a Secure Socket Layer certificate (also known as an SSL certificate) which protects visitors to your website, and a firewall which protects your website from hacking.
Most people who hire someone to build a website don’t know much about website security, but knowing this and bringing it up with your website developer will save you some headaches. If your website developer scratches his or her head when you mention these security issues, then find another developer fast.
SSL Certificate
An SSL certificate should only cost around $75 to $100 per year per website. (As of this writing in 2019). SSL stands for Secure Socket Layer, and is a method of encryption that involves obtaining a verification from an SSL provider and installing that certificate on your site. It’s what makes your domain address go from HTTP to HTTPS, that “S” lets users know the site is secure. Sites that use HTTPS safeguard their visitors’ information, and also earn better rank in search engines—even Google has prioritized sites using HTTPS. When you visit a site on Google that is not using SSL encryption, you will be notified that the site isn’t secure. If you complete even a basic contact form with name, email address, etc., you run the risk of having that information stolen if the site you are on is not secured with an SSL certificate. Furthermore, if your site isn’t secure, your users will know and they may leave immediately — if they even find you at all.
Firewall
A firewall can be as simple as a free plugin on the back side of your website if you use WordPress or some other CMS website building software or it can be something implemented by your hosting company, depending upon who you host with.
Whatever the case may be, don’t ignore security. Everyday websites get hacked and hijacked because of lack of adequate security. Having adequate security really isn’t that hard or expensive so don’t let it go by the wayside. Webs by Cheryl carries a full product line of security tools. LEARN MORE
And, as always, if you need help with this or other website or SEO issues, please give Webs by Cheryl a call at 248.756.2497 or drop us a line by visiting our contact page.