Key highlights
- Learn the 10 essential web hosting security best practices that protect your website from cyber-attacks, downtime and data loss in 2025.
- Know which security features to demand from a hosting provider, including SSL, backups, firewalls, DDoS protection and network monitoring.
- Understand how different hosting types compare in security so you can choose between shared, VPS, dedicated, cloud or managed WordPress hosting confidently.
- Explore how Bluehost integrates built-in protections like free SSL, automated backups, malware scanning, WAF and DDoS protection across hosting plans.
- Uncover practical steps to secure your online business, from using SFTP and running updates to auditing your site regularly and adding security extensions.
Web hosting security has become a vital component of sustaining an online presence, as cyber threats increase and endanger the integrity of websites. With the growing need for fast and secure web hosting, companies and individuals are looking for secure web hosting services that not only offer a flawless user experience but also protect their important data.
In fact, as per W3Techs 2025 report, over 88% of active websites use HTTPS by default. This makes SSL a must-have for credibility, SEO and user trust.
The most secure web hosting companies recognize the need to apply web hosting security best practices to offer the greatest level of safety for their clients’ sensitive information. That’s why we’ve put together a detailed guide on hosting security, combining core practices and key security features with the latest 2025 trends. So, you can confidently protect your site and your online business.
What is secure hosting?
Secure hosting refers to a collection of procedures, protocols and built-in features used by web hosting companies to protect websites and sensitive data from cyber-attacks.
In 2025, secure hosting has evolved beyond the basics. Most providers now include free SSL certificates, automated malware scanning and firewall protection in even entry-level plans. Many web hosts also adopt zero-trust principles and advanced DDoS mitigation to block malicious traffic before it reaches your site.
The most secure WordPress hosting solutions are built around web hosting security best practices, such as:
- Data encryption (in transit with SSL/TLS and at rest with encrypted databases or backups)
- Regular backups with one-click restore
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) for admin logins
- Automatic updates and patching for WordPress core, plugins and server software
- Content Delivery Network (CDN) support to protect against harmful traffic and boost performance
By combining these measures, secure web hosting providers create a layered defense strategy. It can reduce the risk of cyber-attacks while ensuring speed, uptime and reliability.
What security features to look for in web hosting providers?
Not all web hosting plans are created equal. In 2025, many web hosting companies now bundle security into their packages, but the level of protection still varies. When choosing a hosting plan, look for these key security features:
1. Software & server security
A reputable web hosting company should provide comprehensive software security measures, such as frequent upgrades to server operating systems and hosting environment. This includes proactive patch management, firewall protection and intrusion detection systems. It further guarantees that possible vulnerabilities are fixed quickly, lowering the likelihood of intrusions.
Moreover, the provider must verify that any deployed software, such as Content Management Systems (CMS) platforms, plugins and server software, is up-to-date and safe.
2. Free SSL certificate & encrypted connections
A free SSL certificate is now standard with most hosting plans. Secure Socket Layer (SSL) certificates encrypt data sent between a user’s browser and the web server. This prevents unauthorized access to sensitive data. A reliable web hosting service should offer auto-renewal and supports modern TLS versions (TLS 1.2, TLS 1.3) as part of their hosting packages.
Also read: Types of SSL Certificates: Compare DV, OV & EV for Your Website’s Security
3. Automated backups and easy restorations
Maintaining regular backups of website data is critical for swiftly recovering from unintentional data loss or cyber-attack. A web hosting company should provide daily or on-demand backups, stored in multiple secure servers or cloud locations. Backups should be encrypted and easily restorable with one click, so your site stays safe even if an issue occurs.
4. DDoS & malicious traffic protection
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) assaults can overwhelm a website’s server, leading it to fail or become unreachable. So, the web hosting companies should use advanced traffic filtering, rate limiting and bot mitigation tools to block malicious traffic. So, your website stays operational and safe.
5. Network monitoring & security support
Continuous network monitoring is essential for recognizing possible security risks and mitigating them before they cause damage. A good web hosting service should have a team of professionals monitoring their network around the clock to ensure the greatest degree of security for your website.
6. Content Delivery Netword (CDN) integration
By spreading your website’s content over numerous servers across the world, you may increase its performance and security. This lessens the burden on your primary server and provides additional protection against DDoS assaults. A web hosting company that supports CDN or integrates with major CDN providers can dramatically improve your website’s security and speed.
7. Web Application Firewall (WAF)
A modern WAF inspects incoming traffic, blocking SQL injections, cross-site scripting and malicious code. Some providers include this by default; others offer it as a paid add-on. Either way, it’s a must-have for a secure hosting environment.
Also read: 7 Best WordPress Firewall Solutions to Secure Your Site in 2025
8. Server Location & Compliance
Check where your site is hosted. Secure data centers with proper certifications (ISO, SOC 2, PCI DSS for eCommerce) offer stronger guarantees. Server location may also impact compliance with privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA.
Top 10 best web hosting security practices
Below is a quick list of the top 10 web hosting security best practices you should know.
- Back up your website data regularly
- Use SSL/TLS encryption by default
- Use SFTP instead of FTP
- Remove unneeded programs & plugins
- Periodically change passwords & use MFA
- Install and set up a Web Application Firewall (WAF)
- Scan website files for malware
- Run constant software updates
- Restrict website access for unauthorized users
- Use additional security extensions
Now, let’s explore each practice in more detail to see how they strengthen your website security.
1. Back up your website data regularly
Consistent backups are an important part of web hosting security. Regular backups protect your website from potential data loss due to human mistakes, system faults or cyber-attacks. A fast and secure web hosting experience necessitates a thorough backup plan. It includes offsite storage and several backup locations, allowing for rapid recovery and little downtime in the case of an incident.
Bluehost hosting plans include weekly or daily website backups (depending on the plan), along with easy restore tools. So, you can recover quickly if something goes wrong.
2. Use SSL/TLS encryption by default
SSL encryption is an essential part of web hosting security best practices. SSL certificates encrypt data sent between your website and its visitors, ensuring confidentiality and integrity. Ensure your site supports the latest TLS versions (1.2 and 1.3) and consider enabling HSTS (HTTP Strict Transport Security) to enforce secure connections.
By implementing SSL encryption, you provide a safe web hosting solution that builds trust and confidence in your users. Furthermore, search engines reward websites using SSL encryption, which boosts your website’s search rankings. Every Bluehost plan includes a free SSL certificate from Let’s Encrypt, automatically securing your site from day one.
3. Use SFTP instead of FTP
Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) is a safe alternative to regular FTP that encrypts data exchanged between your local workstation and your web server. Using SFTP protects your data from illegal access and interception during transfer, resulting in a more secure web hosting environment.
In 2025, most web hosts offer SFTP and SSH access by default. If your provider doesn’t, it’s a sign you may need a more secure hosting plan. Bluehost provides SSH & WP-CLI access across shared, VPS and dedicated hosting plans, giving you secure file management and developer-level control.
4. Remove unneeded programs & plugins
Keeping your website clear of unneeded programs and plugins is critical for ensuring a safe web hosting environment. These unused parts may include vulnerabilities that attackers might use to compromise your website’s security. So, regularly evaluating, updating and uninstalling these programs is an important aspect of adhering to web hosting security best practices.
Many web hosting companies now provide a malware scanner or vulnerability detection tool to flag risky software. Keeping only what you need is one of the simplest but most effective security tips. Bluehost includes free malware scanning on most hosting plans, helping you detect vulnerabilities early and keep your website clean.
5. Periodically change passwords & use MFA
Passwords should be changed regularly if you want your web hosting to be quick and safe. Avoid reusing the same password across accounts and rotate them periodically to reduce the danger of unwanted access and security breaches. This technique should apply to all website components, including administrative accounts, databases and email accounts.
In 2025, pairing strong, unique passwords with multi-factor authentication (MFA) is the gold standard. Use a password manager to create strong, unique passwords can help improve your website’s security. Adhering to this basic yet effective technique is an important part of web hosting security best practices, as it adds to the overall protection of your online presence.
6. Install and set up a web application firewall
Installing and configuring a Web Application Firewall (WAF) is an important part of web hosting security. A WAF provides an extra layer of security by screening and monitoring incoming traffic to your site.
In 2025, advanced WAFs not only block SQL injections and XSS attacks but also provide bot mitigation, rate limiting and protection against brute-force logins. Bluehost hosting plans include a built-in Web Application Firewall (WAF), plus DDoS protection. So, your site has an added shield against malicious traffic and brute-force attacks.
7. Scan website files for malware
Running frequent malware scans on your website’s files is an important aspect of web hosting security best practices. These scans serve to detect and delete any harmful code or files that may have penetrated your website. By regularly scanning for and treating malware, you can provide a safe web hosting environment, protect your website from any data breaches and defend your online reputation.
Bluehost includes free malware scanning on web hosting plans. On our higher-performance and eCommerce plans, you also get malware detection and removal, ensuring threats are not just identified but cleaned automatically.
8. Run constant software updates
To have the most secure web hosting experience, you must update your software. Regularly upgrading your server’s operating system, content management system and plugins, addresses known vulnerabilities and lowers the danger of intrusions. It also enhances the security of your website and provides performance improvements and new features, resulting in a better user experience.
Bluehost simplifies this with Managed WordPress updates, ensuring your WordPress core, plugins and themes stay patched without manual effort.
9. Restrict website access for unauthorized users
Controlling access to your website’s backend is critical to ensuring a safe web hosting environment. By implementing access controls and limiting backend access to authorized individuals, the risk of unauthorized modifications or data breaches can be reduced.
You can enhance your website’s security and protect critical data by implementing robust authentication mechanisms such as two-factor authentication and secure password restrictions.
While user access policies are managed by site owners, Bluehost strengthens backend protection with firewall protection, DDoS mitigation and malware scanning. Our hosting services prevent brute-force login attempts and other unauthorized access attempts.
10. Use additional security extensions
It’s recommended to use additional security extensions or plugins to add an extra layer of safety to your website. For WordPress hosting plans, security extensions like CodeGuard, SiteLock or Jetpack Protect can add extra defenses.
These extensions offer a range of security capabilities, including real-time malware scanning, intrusion detection and vulnerability assessments, which all contribute to a fast and safe web hosting experience.
By using these security extensions, you can strengthen your website’s security, proactively handle possible attacks and follow web hosting security best practices. This will help you create a safe online environment for your visitors.
Are certain types of hosting more secure than others?
Yes, the type of hosting plan you choose can significantly impact your website’s security. In 2025, here’s how the main hosting types compare:
| Hosting type | Security strength | Common risks | Best for | Bluehost features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared hosting | Basic protection | Higher risk since multiple sites share the same server | Beginners, small websites, blogs | Free SSL, free CDN, weekly backups, free malware scanning, WAF, DDoS protection, WordPress staging site |
| VPS hosting | Stronger isolation, customizable | Misconfigurations if unmanaged | Growing businesses, developers | Free SSL, unmetered bandwidth, firewall protection, 2 dedicated IPs, SSH & WP-CLI, free site migration |
| Dedicated hosting | Highest control & security | Higher cost, requires management | Large businesses, high-traffic or sensitive data sites | Enterprise NVMe storage, premium WAF & CDN, DDoS protection, anti-malware, real-time security scan, priority 24/7 customer support team |
| Cloud hosting | High uptime, scalable security | Depends on provider’s infrastructure | Websites needing scalability & performance | 100% uptime SLA, premium WAF, premium CDN, DDoS protection, real-time backup & security scan, uptime monitoring, global edge caching |
| Managed WordPress hosting | Very secure, auto-managed | Limited flexibility for custom apps | Bloggers, SMBs, WordPress users | Free SSL, managed WordPress updates, malware detection/removal, WAF, DDoS protection, auto plugin updates |
| WooCommerce hosting | PCI-ready, secure transactions | Needs extra compliance for payments | Online stores, eCommerce businesses | Free SSL, malware scanning, daily backups, secure payment processing, WooCommerce auto-install, domain privacy (1st year free) |
Each hosting type offers a different level of protection, but the right choice depends on your website’s size, traffic and security needs. Shared hosting works well for beginners, VPS hosting offers a balance of affordability and isolation, while dedicated and cloud hosting deliver enterprise-grade protection.
If you’re looking for a secure, all-in-one solution, Bluehost provides hosting plans at every level, from beginner-friendly shared hosting with free SSL to advanced cloud hosting with a 100% uptime SLA and global security coverage.
Let’s look at each hosting type in more detail.
1. Shared hosting server
Shared hosting is when numerous websites are hosted on the same server, sharing resources such as bandwidth and storage. While this solution is frequently less expensive, it might expose your website to possible security threats. It’s because a single hacked site on the server may affect all other sites that share the server.
With Bluehost Shared web hosting, you get free SSL, free domain, free CDN, AI website builder, malware scanning, weekly backups, Web Application Firewall (WAF), DDoS protection and WordPress staging sites. On high-performance plans, you also get global data centers, domain privacy (1st year free) and phone support. This makes our shared hosting plans more secure than other hosting companies.
2. Dedicated server hosting
Dedicated hosting gives the highest level of protection and control, making them the most secure web hosting solution for companies with sensitive data or significant traffic levels.
With Bluehost Dedicated hosting, you get enterprise-grade NVMe storage, unmetered bandwidth, cPanel license and free site migration. You also get premium WAF, premium CDN, DDoS protection, anti-malware, uptime monitoring and priority customer support. We ensure fast and secure web hosting while also implementing web hosting security best practices suited to your unique needs.
3. Virtual private servers
Virtual private servers (VPS) and dedicated servers both provide more secure web hosting options than shared hosting. The VPS hosting uses virtual machines to separate a single physical server into numerous virtual servers, each with its own resources and operating system.
This solution offers greater isolation and protection than shared hosting while remaining less expensive than dedicated hosting.
With Bluehost VPS plans, you get free SSL, unmetered bandwidth, cPanel, two dedicated IPs, firewall protection and free site migration tools. We offer you a balance of affordability and security.
4. Cloud hosting
Cloud hosting spreads your site across multiple servers, improving uptime and resilience. In 2025, most cloud platforms also include automated DDoS protection, unlimited bandwidth and encrypted connections by default.
The sites hosted on Bluehost Cloud hosting get enterprise-grade security and performance features. We offer 100% uptime SLA, global data centers and global edge caching. So, your site is always available and fast worldwide.
On the security side, you get premium WAF, premium CDN, DDoS protection, anti-malware and real-time security scans to block threats before they reach your site. Plus, you can host multiple websites and get extras like Yoast SEO Premium to help your site stay optimized while remaining secure.
5. Managed WordPress hosting
Managed WordPress hosting is a form of hosting service in which the hosting provider handles server maintenance, security upgrades and other technical issues while you focus on the content and functioning of your website. This service frequently includes features like regular software upgrades, virus scanning and server monitoring to provide a fast and safe web hosting experience.
By opting for managed hosting, you can be sure that a team of experts will establish and maintain web hosting security best practices, resulting in a more secure hosting environment.
With Bluehost managed WordPress hosting service, you get automatic plugin and core updates, free SSL, malware detection/removal, DDoS protection and 24/7 chat & phone support. This makes us one of the most secure WordPress hosting plans available.
6. Security for eCommerce sites
eCommerce website security is critical since these sites handle sensitive client information, such as payment details and personal data. To guarantee the safest web hosting for eCommerce sites, businesses should look at hosting plans that prioritize security features like:
- SSL encryption
- Regular backups
- Robust authentication procedures and more
Furthermore, compliance with industry standards such as PCI DSS is critical for safeguarding client data and preserving confidence. Businesses may protect their customers’ information and follow web hosting security best practices by selecting a secure web hosting solution that is tailored to the demands of eCommerce websites.
Bluehost WooCommerce hosting is built for online stores and includes SSL certificates, daily automatic backups, malware scanning, firewall protection and secure payment integrations. Our plans also come with WooCommerce auto-install, product subscriptions, memberships, advanced reviews and 1-click checkout tools.
Final thoughts
As the digital world grows, embracing web hosting security best practices becomes a necessity for online success in 2025. You may reduce your risk of cyber-attacks and other online risks by using secure web hosting services. Regularly managing the security of your website also helps.
Investing in web hosting security improves the safety and integrity of your website. It also helps your company’s overall performance and reputation.
Bluehost includes free SSL certificates, AI website builder, automatic backups, malware scanning, firewall and DDoS protection, plus 24/7 expert support on every plan. Whether you’re starting small or scaling with cloud and dedicated servers, we have the right plan to keep your site fast, safe and trusted.
Ready to start? Explore Bluehost web hosting plans to choose the best web hosting account.
FAQs
The most secure hosting type is typically a dedicated server or a managed hosting solution.
– In a dedicated server environment, you have complete control over the server and its resources. It also reduces the risk of sharing resources with potentially malicious users.
– Managed hosting solutions also offer enhanced security. Here, the provider takes care of server maintenance, updates and security monitoring on your behalf.
– Virtual Private Servers (VPS) can also provide a more secure environment compared to shared hosting. They offer better isolation between accounts and greater control over server configurations.
To find a secure web hosting provider, check provider’s reputation, their commitment to implementing web hosting security best practices. Bluehost includes free SSL, automated backups, malware scanning and 24/7 support across web hosting plans. We are the trusted choice for online businesses and WordPress users.
No, hosting providers can’t guarantee complete website security because new threats and vulnerabilities frequently emerge. However, a reputable web hosting provider can significantly reduce the risk of security breaches by implementing web hosting security best practices and offering a range of security features.
It’s important to remember that website security is a shared responsibility between the hosting provider and the website owner. As a website owner, you should also follow best practices. For example, regularly update software, use strong passwords and monitor your website for potential threats.
Some of the most common threats include:
1. DDoS attacks: flooding servers to make sites unreachable
2. Malware: infecting sites to steal data or damage functionality
3. SQL injections: exploiting database vulnerabilities
4. Cross-site scripting (XSS): injecting malicious scripts
5. Brute force attacks: repeated login attempts to gain access
Bluehost mitigates many of these risks with features like DDoS protection, a Web Application Firewall and free malware scanning on hosting plans.
Yes. Many web hosts now use AI-powered security tools that detect unusual login attempts, block malicious traffic patterns and identify zero-day vulnerabilities faster than traditional methods. For example, anomaly detection powered by machine learning can flag suspicious behavior, like repeated failed logins from the same IP, before it turns into a brute-force attack.
If your site handles sensitive user data, choose a host that supports compliance standards like PCI DSS (for eCommerce), SOC 2, ISO/IEC 27001 and GDPR/CCPA for data privacy. Some providers also offer HIPAA-compliant hosting for healthcare websites. Ensuring your hosting environment meets these standards keeps your business legally protected while maintaining customer trust.
Generally, no. Free hosting rarely includes backups, firewalls or malware protection. They often share servers with hundreds of sites, increasing exposure to malicious traffic. For small businesses, even a basic Bluehost shared hosting plan with free SSL, weekly backups and malware scanning is a safer long-term option.
Server location impacts both performance and security compliance. Choosing a hosting provider with secure servers in certified data centers helps ensure strong physical and network protections. For businesses handling customer data in specific regions, selecting a server location aligned with local data privacy laws (e.g., GDPR in the EU) is essential.
At minimum, perform a quarterly security audit. However, high-traffic or eCommerce sites may benefit from monthly vulnerability scans or even real-time monitoring. Many web hosts now provide automated security reports that highlight threats, blocked attacks and patch updates, making it easier to keep your site safe year-round. Bluehost cloud hosting includes real-time security scans and uptime monitoring, helping you track threats continuously.
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