Do I need to be technical to secure my business website?

No. Most of the steps in this guide — such as turning on automatic updates, enabling two-factor authentication, and checking for an SSL certificate — can be done through your website's admin area or by asking your hosting provider. You do not need to write any code.

How often should I update my website's plugins and themes?

Check at least once a week. Turn on automatic updates where your platform allows it, and manually approve any that require it. Outdated plugins are one of the most common entry points for attackers.

What is two-factor authentication and why does my website need it?

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds a second check after your password — usually a short code sent to your phone or generated by an app. Even if someone steals your password, they still cannot log in without that second step. Most website platforms support it for free.

Is a free SSL certificate good enough for a small business website?

For most small business websites, yes. A free SSL certificate encrypts data between your site and your visitors, which is what matters most. Many hosting providers include one automatically. If yours does not, ask them — it is usually straightforward to add.

How many copies of my website backup do I need, and where should I keep them?

At minimum, keep one copy stored separately from your main hosting — for example, in a cloud storage service. If your hosting account is compromised, a backup stored in the same place may be lost too. A monthly check to confirm your backups are actually running is a good habit.

What does a web application firewall actually do?

It sits between the internet and your website, checking incoming traffic and blocking requests that look malicious — such as automated attacks or attempts to flood your site. Some providers offer free plans that are suitable for small business websites.

What should I do if my website is hacked?

Take the site offline if you can, change all admin passwords from a separate device, contact your hosting provider, and restore from a clean backup once you understand what happened. Having a simple written plan before anything goes wrong makes this much easier to handle calmly.

How do I know if my hosting provider takes security seriously?

Ask them directly. A reputable host should be able to tell you about server patching, access restrictions, and any scanning or monitoring they carry out. If they cannot give you a clear answer, it may be worth comparing other providers.

BusinessOnline SafetyFocused ArticlesIntermediateProtect Your Business

Protecting Your Business Website: A Practical Guide

Published 3 May 2026 · 5 min read · by Alex Stevens

Your website is one of your most important business assets. These straightforward steps will help you keep it safe without needing a technical background.

Continue with Business

This article is included in our Business plans.

See plans Sign in