HostingHarbor Guide
Web Hosting Security
Hosting security combines provider-level controls with website-level maintenance, access security, backups, and recovery planning.
What To Check
Look for SSL, malware scanning, firewall/DDoS controls, backups, account security, update workflows, and clear incident recovery options. No host removes the need to maintain the website itself.
Security Is Shared Responsibility
The provider protects parts of the infrastructure, while the site owner remains responsible for accounts, application updates, plugins/themes, access controls, backups, and safe operational practices.
Baseline Controls
Use HTTPS, unique credentials, multi-factor authentication where available, least-privilege accounts, timely updates, malware scanning, firewall/DDoS protections, and reliable off-account backups.
WordPress-Specific Risks
Abandoned plugins, weak administrator credentials, vulnerable themes, and excessive privileges are common risk areas. Remove software you do not use and keep the remaining stack maintained.
Recovery Matters as Much as Prevention
Assume incidents can happen. Know how to restore a clean backup, rotate credentials, inspect affected accounts, and communicate with the host. A tested recovery process reduces the impact of failures.