How do you manage and update your CMS software and security patches?

First, I take a full backup of my website, then I manually update my CMS software. For security, I monitor patches and promptly apply them, ensuring plugins and themes are always up to date. I also run regular backups and security scans.

1.) Take a complete back-up of everything (website content, db, code, everything). 2.) Double check your server(s) and configs. Setup dedicated server spaces (i.e. Staging environments etc). 3.) Research the update and any nuances it might have on your current setup. Then prepare for those ahead of time. 4.) Double check compatibility and possible issues with any third-party integrations with the new build. (i.e. Plugins or modules). 5.) For security patches you can use scanner tools such as Veracode or similar.

In my experience, choosing a hosting provider that offers automatic backups is a lifesaver. It gives you peace of mind knowing you can easily restore your site in case anything goes wrong during an update.

Choosing a reliable hosting provider is essential for maintaining CMS software and security fixes. Such a supplier should provide automated backups, regular scans, and CMS support. They should also alert you to critical updates and vulnerabilities. Evaluating a provider's reputation, customer ratings, and pricing is critical. While money is important, prioritise quality and dependability. Consider scalability for future growth and adaptability to changes. Investing in a trustworthy hosting company ensures that your website is resilient to security risks and runs smoothly. Making an informed decision regarding your hosting provider is critical to maintaining your online presence and ensuring long-term success.

I always recommend creating a staging environment before making any major updates. This way, you can test everything out first and avoid any surprises on your live site.

Staying on top of updates can feel time-consuming, but it's so important! Especially when it comes to security patches. I find it helpful to subscribe to my CMS provider's security mailing list so I'm always notified about critical updates.

Unless you have purchased Managed WordPress Hosting, most service providers support your server—not your CMS. For this reason, it is imperative that you have the proper security on your website to protect your backend from brute force attacks and injections. Make sure to have plugins that run regularly on your site and send notifications of file changes and any security issues (including outdated plugins which may now create vulnerabilities or compromised plugins that may allow backdoor access). Stay up to date on patches. No program is perfect, and there have been several times where rushed rollouts have caused major security issues, requiring a subsequent patch to be administered. CMSs are not set-and-forget; be vigilant.

This is a great point! It's worth taking the extra time to research plugins and themes before installing them. Reading reviews from other users can help you identify any potential compatibility issues or security concerns.

Using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication are some of the easiest ways to add an extra layer of security to your website. It only takes a few minutes to set up and can make a big difference.

Don't forget to check your website after making any updates! It's a good idea to test everything out on different devices and browsers to make sure everything is working as expected.

For my clients, I also recommend scheduling regular website maintenance tasks. This could include things like running security scans, checking for broken links, and optimizing website performance. By staying on top of these tasks, you can help ensure your website is always running smoothly and securely.