Limit admin access and use strong passwords to reduce common security risks.
Cyberattacks happen every 39 seconds. That’s not an exaggeration—it’s a data-backed reality. And if your website isn’t properly secured, it’s not a question of if something will go wrong, but when. Hackers are more aggressive than ever, equipped with advanced tools to break through weak defenses in seconds.
For businesses, compromised websites can mean stolen data, lost revenue, and a damaged reputation. But most threats can be prevented with smart, proactive choices. Strengthening your website’s foundation doesn’t have to be complicated—it just takes knowing what to look for and putting safeguards in place.
These 10 tips to improve your website security cover the basics and beyond—helping you lock down vulnerabilities before they become real problems. Whether you run a small business site or manage a growing eCommerce platform, these steps will help secure your digital presence, protect your users, and build long-term trust.
1. Update Your Software Regularly
Keeping your software up-to-date is one of the simplest and most important ways to reduce vulnerability.
Hackers exploit outdated systems because they often contain known weaknesses. This applies to you:
- Content Management System (CMS)
- Plugins and themes
- Third-party apps
Most CMS platforms like WordPress roll out regular updates to patch security holes and improve performance. You can:
- Enable automatic updates where possible
- Use a plugin that notifies you when an update is needed
- Schedule weekly checks to ensure everything is current
Bonus: Updated software improves user experience by resolving bugs and compatibility issues.
If you’re unsure whether your current tech stack is up to date, consider scheduling a website audit. Not only will it highlight outdated elements, but it can also uncover broken functionality or bloated code slowing things down.
2. Choose a Secure Web Host
Not all hosting providers offer the same level of protection. Cheap hosting may seem practical, but it often comes at the cost of security.
Shared hosting, for instance, puts multiple websites on one server—meaning if one is compromised, yours could be too.
When selecting a host, look for these features:
- Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP)
- Routine backups
- Malware scanning and removal
- Dedicated or VPS hosting options
You’ll also want a host that offers 24/7 support and quick response times in case of breaches or downtime. The ability to isolate infections quickly and restore from a backup is crucial when dealing with time-sensitive issues.
Choosing a host with a proven track record in uptime, support responsiveness, and strong infrastructure ensures you’re building on a stable foundation.
3. Use Trusted and Updated Plugins
Plugins add functionality to your website, but not all plugins are safe. Poorly coded or abandoned plugins can open backdoors for attackers.
Before installing any plugin:
- Research the developer and read user reviews
- Check the last update date (avoid anything untouched for 6+ months)
- Ensure it’s compatible with your CMS version
Tip: Limit the number of plugins you use. Fewer add-ons mean fewer potential vulnerabilities.
Some developers fall into the trap of installing every feature-enhancing plugin. But more isn’t better—especially when security is at stake. In many cases, functionality can be achieved with cleaner, leaner code from custom development.
For added security and performance, consider working with a UX design or web development team that can custom-build features instead of relying on third-party solutions.
4. Use SSL Encryption
Security scans and audits help detect vulnerabilities before they become threats.
Installing an SSL certificate encrypts the connection between your website and its users. This protects sensitive information like:
- Login credentials
- Payment details
- Personal identification data
SSL certificates also:
- Add a padlock icon to your browser’s address bar
- Switch your URL from HTTP to HTTPS
- Improve SEO rankings
Web browsers now flag non-HTTPS sites as “Not Secure,” discouraging users from staying on your site. SSL is non-negotiable if you run an eCommerce platform or collect personal info.
Let’s Encrypt offers free SSL certificates, and many web hosts make installation as easy as one click.
If you already have SSL installed, ensure all pages—including subdomains—redirect to HTTPS. Use tools like Why No Padlock or your browser’s developer tools to check for mixed content warnings that may break secure connections.
5. Limit Administrator Access
The more people with admin access to your site, the greater your risk of a security breach.
Every team member doesn’t need complete control. Instead, follow the principle of least privilege:
- Assign roles like Editor, Contributor, or Subscriber based on what a user needs to do
- Create separate accounts for each user instead of sharing credentials
- Audit roles regularly to remove outdated accounts
Limiting admin access reduces the chances of accidental errors and ensures you can track who made which changes. This also helps maintain accountability.
Example: A visual designer may only need access to layout elements, while someone conducting user research shouldn’t need backend control.
To strengthen access control further, consider integrating tools like role manager plugins, audit logs, and access alerts to monitor who is doing what in your system.
Building User-Centered Security
Security shouldn’t come at the expense of usability. Good security enhances the user experience. Users are more likely to trust and interact with websites that look professional and behave responsibly with their data.
A user-centered design approach means:
- Designing secure login flows that are intuitive
- Making password requirements clear and simple to follow
- Providing helpful error messages when something goes wrong
Incorporating the design thinking process ensures your website stays functional, secure, and easy to use.
Working with experienced UX and interaction designers can help you balance usability and robust protection. Designing around real users, not just technical requirements, results in a safer, more satisfying experience for everyone.
6. Require Strong Passwords
Passwords are still one of the most common points of failure regarding website security. Despite growing awareness, weak passwords remain widespread. If your users or team members use “123456” or “password,” you have a problem.
Enforce a strong password policy:
- Require a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters
- Set a minimum length (ideally 12 characters or more)
- Avoid dictionary words, names, or dates tied to personal info
Implement a password strength meter during account creation or password changes for added visibility. If you manage a WordPress site, you can enable this feature through plugins or custom-built functionality.
Also, consider using a password manager internally to generate and store secure passwords for admin-level accounts.
A strong password policy also reinforces the credibility of your digital presence. Users are more likely to trust a platform that protects their credentials and encourages them to create secure accounts.
7. Change Default Settings
Regular updates and strong access controls reduce common vulnerabilities.
Most CMS platforms come with default usernames, database table prefixes, and permissions that are well-known to attackers.
Leaving these settings unchanged makes it easier for automated bots to launch brute-force attacks. For example, the default WordPress username “admin” is one of the first targets hackers try.
To tighten your setup:
- Rename the default administrator username
- Change the default database prefix (e.g., from wp_ to a custom string)
- Disable file editing from the CMS dashboard
- Restrict directory browsing and access permissions
These small steps reduce your attack surface and make your website a less attractive target.
This step is particularly important for those managing multiple WordPress installations or client projects. Setting up a secure baseline configuration can prevent future headaches and provide better scalability.
8. Declutter Your Website
Old files, outdated plugins, unused themes, and inactive user accounts aren’t just clutter—they’re liabilities.
Hackers often exploit forgotten entry points that no one monitors. Deleting or deactivating what’s no longer needed reduces the number of ways someone can get in.
To keep your site clean and secure:
- Remove inactive plugins and themes
- Delete old backups stored on your server
- Deactivate or delete unused user accounts
- Organize and regularly review file directories
This improves your site’s security posture and boosts performance. A lighter, more optimized backend leads to faster load times and easier maintenance.
A lean and intentional backend is also easier for UX designers and developers to work with, reducing confusion and error when handing off between teams.
9. Scan for Vulnerabilities Regularly
Security scans aren’t a one-and-done activity. Like antivirus software on your computer, your website needs continuous protection and monitoring.
Automated tools can help:
- Sucuri SiteCheck
- Wordfence (for WordPress)
- Qualys FreeScan
- Google Search Console (Security Issues tab)
However, these tools vary in their detection capabilities. Consider scheduling regular manual security audits with your web development partner. They can check areas that automated tools often miss, such as permission misconfigurations or flawed custom code.
Conduct scans monthly at a minimum—or more often if you manage a high-traffic or eCommerce site.
Make vulnerability assessments part of your standard operating procedures. Create a documented remediation process and assign clear roles to team members to avoid delays when threats are detected.
10. Backup Your Data (And Test It)
A security breach risks your users’ data and can shut down your entire operation. That’s why backups are non-negotiable.
Make sure you:
- Back up your entire site: files, database, media, and configurations
- Use both onsite and offsite backups (e.g., cloud storage or external servers)
- Schedule backups automatically (daily or weekly, depending on update frequency)
- Test backups periodically to confirm they can be restored
There’s nothing worse than discovering a corrupted backup during an emergency. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
Also, document your restoration process. Whether you’re using a hosting platform’s snapshot feature or a third-party backup plugin, ensure team members know how to restore and validate the backup quickly.
Secure Your Admin Dashboard
The admin dashboard is your website’s nerve center. If compromised, attackers can easily control content, access user data, and install malicious scripts. Securing this area adds another layer of protection and limits what bad actors can do if they manage to get in.
Start by changing the default login URL—especially if you use platforms like WordPress where /wp-admin is commonly targeted. You can also set login attempt limits to prevent brute force attacks and enable reCAPTCHA on your login page.
Other useful measures include:
- Enabling two-factor authentication for all admin accounts
- Restricting dashboard access by IP address
- Automatically logging out inactive users
These steps reduce risk and give you better control over who can access your backend and when.
Empowering Your Team to Stay Secure
Security isn’t just about firewalls and software—it’s about people. Human error remains one of the biggest security threats.
Empower your team with training and clear protocols:
- Educate staff on phishing, social engineering, and safe browsing habits
- Create SOPs for updating software, handling sensitive data, and approving access requests
- Set up alerts for suspicious login attempts or file changes
Build a culture of security awareness into your onboarding process. Make security part of your company’s values—not just a checklist. Encourage staff to report anything suspicious and reward proactive behavior.
Strengthening Website Security for Long-Term Growth
Improving your website security isn’t about doing everything at once. It’s about building better habits, integrating smarter tools, and fostering awareness across your digital ecosystem.
The tips above contribute to a stronger foundation that protects your brand, users, and bottom line. Whether maintaining a small business site or scaling an enterprise platform, security must be built into your daily workflow—not treated as an afterthought.
Combine technical safeguards like SSL, backups, and scans with strategic planning and team empowerment. Regularly revisit your setup and stay informed about evolving threats. New attack vectors always emerge, and staying static is not an option.
Security also intersects with design. When protection is integrated into your UX design, information architecture, and interaction flows, you create systems that feel trustworthy. Strong visual design and well-thought-out user journeys reassure visitors that they’re in good hands.
Ultimately, a secure website isn’t just about protection—it’s about delivering a better user experience, increasing trust, and building a resilient business that can grow without unnecessary risks.
Need help implementing these strategies? Contact DevWerkz to work with a team that understands modern website security’s technical, strategic, and human aspects.