subject: A few tips to help protect your website [print this page] With advances in technology and the constant growing spread of the internet, owning a website has both its positives and negatives. The negative impact is the growing risks of attacks, such as viruses, hacking and malware. Though it is impossible to protect your website investment 100% from these attacks there are several steps that can be taken in order to protect your website. The following are some of the more basic steps you can take that will help protect your website from malicious hackers and attacks:
Virus Protection: A solid first step. Good virus protection ensures complete security of your website and your visitors. Install a good anti-virus on your server or make sure you hosting provider is up to date and that you are protected. Also ensure you have a good anti-virus program installed on your PC--you don't want to be the one infecting your own website!
Selected of alpha-numeric passwords: It is a good practice to change and/or modify your FTP password 3 or 4 times throughout the year. Though we know the remembering of passwords is hard enough, let alone one that changes ever three or four months, this will definitely ensure the safety of your website. You should take full advantage of the maximum length allowed for a password and the password should contain a health mix of both numerals and letters. Of course don't use common information such as birth dates, social security number, or names. Also protect your server database with passwords.
Using Proper security patches: Always ensure your system is running on the most current up-to-date security patches. If you are going through a hosting provider ensure they are up-to-date on their server security patches. Also ensure you download the security patches related to your website and the software you use.
Be sensible with your file server permissions: Your file server permissions should be set in such a way that you do not allow indiscriminate entry to your website. That you are fully aware of what is being uploaded and downloaded or what data is being accesses.
Use Google Webmaster: Link your site with Google Webmaster, it will help you to learn about any hacking attempted immediately. It will also proved information and assist you with determining how to protect yourself for the future. It is a free and valuable tool!
Make regular back-ups: Always ensure you have a back-up of your data. Nothing is worse than losing all your hard work in a moment. Either set up and automated back-up or do it manually, but whichever way you choose, ensure it is getting done.
