Tips to Increase Security on Web Hosting Servers
Once you have your shiny new website up and running, it’s imperative to keep it nice and secure. The last thing you want is for unscrupulous hackers to infiltrate the servers, and potentially leaving your site in a pile of virtual rubble. Thankfully, there are a number of practices you can implement to help ward off troublemakers. And don’t think you need to start studying any advanced Internet security books – many of the best methods are the simplest ones to apply. So with that said, here are various ways to increase security on web hosting services.
Choose a reputable and secure web host
Picking a reputable website hosting provider is a key aspect for any site, and security is one of the main reasons why. Your host should always be aware of the latest threats and have the resources to deal with them swiftly. Your host should backup your website’s data to a remote server, where it can be easily restored if needed. And your host should supply efficient, around-the-clock technical support.
Plus you have to ensure they’re capable of offering extensive security for all of their plans. If you’re using, for example, cloud hosting, you want this to be covered in the same way as the likes of shared, dedicated and VPS hosting.
Utilize a strong password policy
A strong password is one of the initial walls you should construct to deny hackers. This is because hackers use sophisticated software that looks for any weaknesses in passwords. If the software spots any, it will use brute force to crack the password and gain access to your website.
As a result, it is vital to utilize complex passwords across your site. First of all, the password should have at least ten characters. Then it’s a case of throwing in a mix of numbers, special characters, uppercase letters, lowercase letters… the more convoluted, the better. Although remember to make a note of it so you don’t confuse yourself!
Up-to-date software is a must
This is important. All of the scripts and platforms you have installed should be up-to-date. The reason for this is hackers specifically target security flaws in prevalent web software. If this software is out of date – which means certain security holes haven’t been filled – it makes it easier for hackers to gain access. When an update is available for any software you use, install it as soon as possible.
Regularly backup data
As already touched upon in the web host section, you should implement a system where you regularly backup your data. Doing so means, if your website is hacked and unable to be ‘rescued’, you can revert back to a previous form of the site that has been backed up. Obviously the more regular you are with those backups, the less work will be necessary to get the site back to how it was before the hacking took place. For added assurance, the backup data should be encrypted and placed on an off-site server.