We’ve put together a list of the top 5 tips for keeping hackers out of your site.

1. Keep your software and scripts up to date. Websites run on top of a surprisingly large number of layers of software, all of which need to be kept up to date in order to keep the site protected. The server operating system, the web server and database software, programming environments and any content management systems or scripts all need to be kept up to date with patches and security fixes to ensure any exploits are closed as soon as possible.
2. Install Anti-Virus and Anti-malware software on any computer you will be using to update the website. The number one cause of website security breaches is a malicious user gaining access to a website via malware on a users home or work computer. It’s important to have up to date anti-virus and anti-malware software installed on all machines and scans should be completed regularly.
3. Always use secure passwords. You should always use best practices when selecting passwords for your site.Passwords should be at least 8 characters long and should contain a mixture of upper and lower case characters, numbers and punctuation.Use a different password for every location.Only give you password to the people that absolutely must have it.If you ever do give you password to somebody else, be sure to change it to something else as soon as they are finished.
4. Use a reliable, secure hosting provider. You wouldn’t want to run a brick and mortar shop in the dodgy part of town would you? You need to be confident that your hosting provider takes all of the necessary steps to protect their network and the machines hosted on it. They should also have friendly, helpful and knowledgeable staff available to help should you ever run into any problems.
5. Keep server logs and regular backups! No matter what you do to protect your site it can never be 100% safe from the new exploits appearing all of the time. It’s important that you’re prepared for the worst by taking regular backups of all site files and databases so that you can restore the site to the safe version as soon as possible. Keeping server logs can help you close security holes by showing you exactly how a malicious user managed to gain access and which files in particular they used.

At WSI Yorkshire we take website security very seriously and can advise you on the best course of action to protect your site.

Get in touch with Lisa today on 01484 690 430 or email info@wsiyorkshire.co.uk