Want to create a secure website but are put off by the potential cost? Don’t be. While websites have the potential to get really expensive, there are ways to save money if you’re mindful about certain elements Follow these tips, and you should be able to make a great website for an affordable price.
1. Get a cheap SSL
You’ve likely noticed that the SSL certificate cost by Namecheap and a handful of other vendors are pretty low. Some are also more expensive. Does price mean anything? Nope! All SSL certificates are the same, no matter the cost, so don’t worry about that. And with SSL certificates being an integral part of web security these days, they’re not something you want to skip out on. So make it easier by getting encryption on your site for a low price! Not only will your users appreciate seeing the trusty padlock symbol in the address bar, but web browsers and search engines will like it too. With an SSL, web browsers won’t flag your website as “not secure,” and search engines will rank your site higher than a site without SSL. What’s not to love?
2. Choose a reputable web host
Now that you know where you’re getting your SSL, you should decide on a web host. Some web hosts are definitely more expensive than others, and some are more reputable. Fortunately, much like SSL certificates, cheaper does not necessarily equal bad. Just be sure to research the host, particularly how secure they are. A good one will provide services like built-in DDoS protection and regular backups,
3. Use WordPress
It might be tempting to go for a cheap website builder, but a content management system like WordPress will benefit you more in the long term. For one thing, free website builders will likely display their branding prominently on your site, which is not a good look. With WordPress, you have far more control over how your site looks and how it runs. This goes for security too. Which brings us nicely to our next point.
4. Use free plugins
Another benefit of WordPress is the wealth of free and inexpensive plugins available. You can add almost any functionality to your site with an easy-to-add plugin, including security, from firewalls to security scanners. Make sure to research the developer and read the reviews before adding one to your site. Also, make sure it’s regularly updated. Plugins are handy, but if you use something old or outdated, it can serve as a backdoor into your site for hackers.
