𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲

𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲

Security is often an afterthought. You finish the design and test the features. You launch. Then, an attack happens.

Small websites are targets. Attackers look for weak passwords and old software. One mistake leads to data breaches and lost trust.

Use this checklist before you launch your next site.

• Setup SSL Ensure HTTPS works on every page. Redirect all HTTP traffic to HTTPS.

• Clean your files Remove test pages, staging URLs, and backup files. Do not leave developer tools public.

• Update credentials Change all default usernames and passwords. Use long, unique passwords with numbers and symbols.

• Enable MFA Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication for all admins, developers, and hosting accounts.

• Patch your software Install the latest versions of your CMS, plugins, and themes. Delete any unused plugins.

• Secure admin access Use custom admin URLs and limit login attempts. Add CAPTCHA to your login page.

• Limit user roles Give people only the access they need. Editors should not have admin rights.

• Validate all inputs Use parameterized queries to stop SQL injection. Sanitize all user data to prevent XSS attacks.

• Set security headers Use headers like CSP and HSTS to strengthen browser protection.

• Disable directory browsing Ensure visitors cannot browse your server folders.

• Secure file uploads Limit file types and sizes. Scan all uploads for malware.

• Test your backups Back up your files and databases. Test the restoration process to ensure it works.

• Hide error messages Turn off debug mode. Show users friendly error pages instead of technical system data.

• Monitor your site Watch for failed logins, downtime, and strange traffic patterns.

Security is part of development. It is not a task for later. Preparation prevents disaster.

Source: https://dev.to/wingsdesignstudio/website-security-checklist-before-going-live-312n