Key highlights
- Follow a structured website security checklist to identify vulnerabilities and protect against cyber threats.
- Keep your web server, applications and plugins updated to prevent unauthorized access.
- Strengthen protection with SSL certificates, multi-factor authentication and web application firewalls (WAF).
- Conduct regular security audits and apply data encryption to safeguard sensitive information.
- Build on a secure hosting environment with Bluehost, designed for enhanced security and reliable performance.
Your website is the heart of your online presence – but it’s also a target. From SQL injections to phishing attacks, even small vulnerabilities can expose sensitive data or let hackers gain unauthorized access. Even a small oversight can expose sensitive information or compromise your entire system.
A clear website security checklist helps you stay proactive. Regular security audits, data encryption and web application firewalls (WAF) form the backbone of a strong defense strategy. Keeping software up to date, enforcing multi-factor authentication and using an SSL certificate further reduces the risk of malicious traffic and unauthorized access.
This guide outlines the essential best practices for website security – practical steps you can follow to protect against malicious actors and maintain a trusted, resilient online presence.
Quick overview – Website security checklist
This website security checklist gives a quick look at the essential steps every site owner should take to prevent data breaches, malicious attacks and unauthorized access.
| Website security checklist | |
| ✅ 1 | Remove unfamiliar or malicious files/folders |
| ✅ 2 | Update all scripts and applications |
| ✅ 3 | Update all plugins |
| ✅ 4 | Change passwords or remove unused accounts |
| ✅ 5 | Delete unused databases or applications |
| ✅ 6 | Fix dangerously writable permissions |
| ✅ 7 | Hide configuration files |
| ✅ 8 | Tweak the php.ini file (or equivalent config) |
| ✅ 9 | Use a secure network |
| ✅ 10 | Ensure local computer security |
| ✅ 11 | Secure email connections |
| ✅ 12 | Use antivirus or malware protection |
Each of these actions plays a vital role in protecting your web server, securing sensitive data and improving your overall website security posture. We’ll explore each of these steps in detail below – but before that, let’s understand why you can’t ignore website security.
Why you can’t ignore website security?
With growing digital crimes, website security is more important than ever. According to the IBM Data Breach report, in 2025, the average global cost of a data breach dropped slightly to USD 4.44 million.
The report also revealed that 13% of organizations experienced a breach involving their AI models or applications and 97% of those lacked proper AI access controls – showing how rapidly AI-driven threats are evolving.
Key risks to watch out for
- SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in web applications.
- Weak user input validation and misconfigured web server processes that let attackers exploit loopholes.
- Compromised login credentials and a lack of multi-factor authentication provide malicious actors with access to sensitive areas.
- Outdated software and plugins increase the risk of security vulnerabilities.
Ignoring best practices for website security puts both your users and business reputation at stake. A strong website security requirement checklist helps protect websites from evolving threats while ensuring a secure environment for legitimate users.
Let us now explore the detailed checklist for ensuring your web application security measures are taken care of at every step.
The complete website security checklist – 12 steps to secure website
A secure website is built through consistent action and smart maintenance. This website security requirement checklist acts as a hands-on guide to safeguard your data. This can help defend your website against security threats and ensure a secure environment for both your business and users.
These steps align with best practices for website security and recommendations from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA).
1. Remove unfamiliar or malicious files/folders
Run a manual check of your website’s root directory and subfolders through your hosting file manager or FTP client. Look for suspicious file names, unexpected scripts or folders that don’t match your site structure.
Use automated security tools to identify malicious code or scripts injected through cross-site scripting (XSS) or SQL injection.
Tip: Compare your live files with a clean backup to quickly spot anything unauthorized.
Also read: How to Remove Website Malware Using SiteLock
2. Update all scripts and applications
Outdated content management systems (CMS) and frameworks create easy entry points for attackers. Keep your web server, core CMS and any third-party apps up to date to patch known security vulnerabilities.
Subscribe to release updates from your CMS provider and set reminders for scheduled updates.
Tip: Regular patching reduces exposure to data breaches, malicious traffic and application security flaws.
Read more: How to Troubleshoot and Repair WordPress Core Files
3. Update all plugins
Plugins often handle user input or connect to databases, making them prime targets for malicious actors. Review all installed plugins, delete unused ones and verify compatibility after every core update.
Choose plugins from trusted developers and check their update frequency. At Bluehost, we offer hosting solutions that are optimized with the latest versions of various plugins. You can easily explore them from your dashboard and keep your website running smoothly every time. From plugins to the smallest details of your WordPress website, we’ve got you covered with our hosting plans.
Tip: A plugin audit should be part of your monthly website security audit checklist.
4. Change passwords or remove unused accounts
Use complex passwords that include complex character combinations. Enforce two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all administrative access.
Remove inactive user accounts to limit exposure and ensure minimum access for legitimate users.
Tip: Avoid reusing credentials across different web applications to prevent data theft in case of a breach.
5. Delete unused databases or applications
Old databases or demo installations increase security risks and give attackers more opportunities to gain unauthorized access. Audit your hosting account and remove obsolete installations to maintain a cleaner and more efficient server environment.
Note: This is a core step in every website security plan checklist to help reduce your attack surface.
6. Fix dangerously writable permissions
Misconfigured file permissions allow hackers to edit or replace your files. Set folder permissions to 755 and file permissions to 644 using cPanel or an FTP client. This configuration allows legitimate users and system processes to function normally while blocking unauthorized edits.
Tip: Regular permission checks prevent hacking attempts that exploit open write access or flawed web server processes.
Read more: How to Change File Permissions
7. Hide configuration files
Files like wp-config.php or .env contain sensitive data, including database passwords and API keys. Move these outside your public_html directory and restrict access using .htaccess rules.
Note: Strong access controls help protect websites from unauthorized viewing or data leaks.
8. Tweak the php.ini file (or equivalent config)
Adjusting your php.ini (or similar config files) enhances application security. Disable register_globals and set display_errors = Off to avoid exposing internal paths or sensitive errors to public users.
Tip: Combine this with HTTP Strict Transport Security (HSTS) and data encryption to safeguard HTTP traffic and prevent interception.
9. Use a secure network
Always perform administrative tasks over secure, encrypted Wi-Fi. Avoid public hotspots and use a VPN to hide your IP and protect login sessions. This minimizes the risk of phishing attacks, data interception and malicious code injection through open networks.
10. Ensure local computer security
Your site’s security is only as strong as the device managing it. Keep your system software up to date, install antivirus tools and enable real-time malware protection.
Tips: Regular device scans prevent malicious bots from injecting harmful scripts when uploading files to your site.
11. Secure email connections
Enable Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) or Transport Layer Security (TLS) encryption in your email clients like Outlook or Mac Mail. This ensures your login credentials, personal details and credit card information remain protected in transit and prevents attackers from intercepting messages.
Also read: How to Get Secure Business Email Services
12. Use antivirus or malware protection
Automate your defenses with security tools and a web application firewall (WAF). Monitor server logs to identify vulnerabilities and implement rate limiting to defend against brute-force and DDoS attacks.
Also read: How to Install Antivirus on a VPS or Dedicated Server
These basic security practices protect both your business and users, ensuring enhanced security and long-term data protection.
Now that you have your checklist ready, knowing how to use it is crucial. Let’s understand how Bluehost can help create a secure website.
Strengthen website security with Bluehost
A solid website security plan checklist is only as strong as the solutions and tools behind it. That’s where Bluehost steps in – simplifying security management for site owners through automated protection, integrated backups and real-time monitoring. We ensure a secure environment built on modern infrastructure and security measures.
Here’s how Bluehost’s built-in security solutions and integrations support your website’s defense against evolving common threats:
| Bluehost features and integration | Purpose and benefits | Best for | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free SSL certificate | Encrypts sensitive data and activates strict transport security, ensuring user trust and protection against data theft. Every Bluehost plan includes SSL by default. | Anyone building a secure website or eCommerce store that handles personal details or payments. | Google Security Updates: Why SSL is Essential for Websites |
| SiteLock security (Web Application Firewall – WAF) | Detects and blocks malicious traffic, SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. SiteLock’s web application firewall prevents harmful requests from reaching your site. | Site owners managing WordPress or web applications prone to application security risks. | SiteLock: Content Delivery Network (CDN) |
| Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) | Adds an extra layer of protection by requiring verification during login, reducing the risk of phishing attacks or unauthorized access. | Administrators and business owners managing multiple user accounts. | How to Enable and Disable Two Factor Authentication |
| CodeGuard backup and restore | Provides automated backups, real-time monitoring and one-click restoration in case of malicious attacks or data breaches. Ideal for data security and maintaining uptime. | Websites that prioritize business continuity and quick recovery from security risks. | Setting Up CodeGuard for Backups |
| Built-in DDoS and server protection | Bluehost’s web server infrastructure includes DDoS protection, rate limiting and detailed server logs to identify and mitigate automated bots or malicious actors. | Growing sites or eCommerce stores requiring high availability and enhanced security. | A Must-Have Website Security Checklist |
At Bluehost, we combine security best practices, advanced infrastructure protection and reliable hosting performance to help you meet key website security requirements with ease. From data encryption to web application firewalls, everything is built to protect websites and preserve your visitors’ trust.
What to do if you suspect your site is compromised?
Even with the best website security checklist, breaches can still occur. Quick action minimizes damage and helps in maintaining security of the website efficiently.
Here’s what to do immediately:
- Disconnect and assess
Temporarily disable access to your website to stop further malicious traffic or data theft. Review your web server processes and note unusual activity or unauthorized changes.
- Verify the extent of the breach
Use Bluehost’s SiteLock Security dashboard or a trusted scanner to identify where malicious code has entered. Look for compromised user accounts, modified files or altered permissions.
- Restore and resecure
If the infection is confirmed, restore a clean backup using CodeGuard. Once restored, reset all login credentials, re-enable multi-factor authentication and perform a fresh website security audit checklist to ensure no remnants remain.
- Strengthen future defenses
After recovery, implement a stronger website security plan checklist – tighten access controls, activate DDoS protection, review server logs and schedule automated security audits through Bluehost’s dashboard.
Tip: Treat every incident as an opportunity to improve. Update your incident response strategy, educate team members on phishing and social engineering and keep your software up to date to avoid repeat attacks.
Final thoughts
Website security isn’t a one-time fix – it’s a habit that keeps your site, data and users safe. Regular updates, limited access and periodic security audits go a long way in protecting your online presence.
With Bluehost, essentials like SSL certificates, automated backups and web application firewalls come built-in, so you can focus on growing your site while we handle the critical issues and protection.
Start strengthening your website security with Bluehost today – stay protected, stay confident.
FAQs
A web server security checklist focuses on protecting the infrastructure (OS, services, ports, server logs, access controls) that hosts your site. On the other hand, a website security checklist covers the application layer (content management systems, plugins, user input, web application security). Both are essential to defend against malicious traffic, automated tools, data breaches and DDoS attacks.
Without proper security measures, your site becomes vulnerable to data breaches, malicious attacks and unauthorized access. All of these can compromise sensitive information, damage your brand and result in search engine penalties.
For WordPress specifically, the checklist should cover the following:
– Updating core files, themes and plugins regularly
– Enforcing multi-factor authentication for all logins
– Limiting user permissions to the minimum access required
– Scanning your website frequently for malicious code
– Installing and configuring a Web Application Firewall (WAF)
A website security audit checklist should be conducted at least quarterly and after major site changes (new plugins, theme updates, CMS upgrades). This ensures you identify application security flaws, evolving threats and ensure your site’s health remains intact – rather than just reacting to an incident.
Yes. SSL/TLS encrypts HTTP traffic between users and your server, protects sensitive data in transit and is part of many website security best practices. Enforcing HTTPS and implementing strict-transport-security (HSTS) headers further enhances protection.
A web application firewall (WAF) is a specialized security tool that filters and monitors HTTP traffic flowing into web applications. It blocks threats like SQL injection, cross-site scripting and malicious actors exploiting user input or outdated software – key best practices for maintaining website security.
Login credentials are often the weakest link. Using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) or multi-factor authentication (MFA) reduces the risk that malicious actors will gain unauthorized access. Combined with limiting administrative access and applying least privilege, it’s a top “basic security practice” for data protection.
Websites that handle personal details, credit card information or other sensitive data must take extra precautions. Apply data encryption, hide configuration files and regularly monitor server logs. Restrict user permissions and address potential threats caused by outdated software and poorly configured web server processes.
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