Website security – it’s a big deal!
If you have any familiarity with computers, then no doubt you have heard of computer viruses or bugs that sometimes plague users. There are three main computer operating systems in use today. Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. Of these three, Microsoft Windows is the most popular worldwide. The reason is, there are more software solutions developed for business, education, and government applications on the Microsoft platform than any other operating system.
When computer hackers want to develop malware or exploit vulnerabilities in other people’s computer systems, they typically maximize the potential effect they can have by focusing on where they can do the most damage. In this case, majority rules and the Windows operating system is the most frequent target for computer attacks and hackers. Not that Mac OS and Linux are also not targeted, but they suffer far fewer attempts.
As a result, Microsoft works overtime constantly updating their software and operating systems to respond to new threats that immerge almost on a daily basis. If you are a computer and software user, it then becomes extremely important that you keep your software up to date. You also must utilize a solid firewall and anti-virus/malware software to ensure you do not become a victim of computer problems associated with computer viruses’ and malware.
Websites are software
Websites are essentially a collection of files that are combined to provide a platform that provides design and function for those who use them. These files are placed on a computer somewhere in the world which is referred to as “hosting.” Examples of popular hosting providers are GoDaddy, Bluehost, HostGator, etc, When you host your website somewhere, you are simply parking your website files on a computer that is connected to the internet. The computer utilizes software to be able to make your website files accessible to other pieces of software called website browsers. Popular browsers are Chrome, Edge, and Safari.
Most websites are built using what is called a content management system (CMS). There are many proprietary content management systems available today. However, one of the most popular CMS is WordPress. This website is built on the WordPress platform. WordPress is a software-based platform that is open-sourced and includes literally thousands of other software solutions that provide function and design features. This is the reason why WordPress is used on approximately 35% of websites worldwide. The ability to customize a website for its design and function using WordPress is almost unparalleled.
Website vulnerabilities
Computer hackers come in all shapes and sizes. They range from the “hobbyist” to private and government agents. The reasons why people attempt to exploit computer vulnerabilities ranges from the hobbyist that just wants you to know they got into your electronic world, to major corporate and government electronic espionage or attacks aimed at doing actual damage. There is a lot in between these two extremes and when it comes to the software used to build and maintain your website, the threat comes from somewhere in that area.
Since WordPress is such a popular CMS, it is also frequently targeted by hackers. But since WordPress is a such developed platform with software solutions continuously being developed and updated, there is no shortage of ways to ensure your website is kept safe and secure from hackers.
Keep in mind, there is no system or software solution that is 100% secure. If searched hard and long enough, vulnerabilities can be found in any system. Hackers, however, look for the easiest systems to exploit to minimize the amount of effort and resources they have to spend. WordPress is also not the only CMS that is targeted. All CMS can, and have been targeted.
Keeping Our Clients Safe
As a website design agency that uses WordPress to design websites, security is one of our top priorities. Our clients rely on their websites to stay healthy and running. We monitor regular reports of attempts by hackers who try everything from unauthorized access, to malicious file embeds, website file redirects, and much more. We keep our client’s websites the safest and most secure possible by:
- Keeping software updated constantly
- Fire wall software that is rock solid
- Staying informed on the latest vulnerabilities
If you are managing your own website, it is extremely important that you do everything you can to ensure it remains healthy and safe (as much as possible) from attack. Depending on how your website is built and where it is hosted, you likely have options available to ensure you can do all that’s possible to ensure your website is safe. If you have questions about how to ensure the safety of your website, feel free to contact us!
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