What does this mean? Well, you probably often see update requirements or notifications from Microsoft (needs a link) on your PC. These are upgrades to operating systems or software that you use. Similarly, website platforms have regular updates, and these website health checks need to be executed and then checked to ensure there has been no impact on the website design and function.These updates often include security upgrades, so it’s essential they are acted on to reduce the chance of your website being “hacked”. For example, many websites have third-party software which is used for their operation. That software represents a potential avenue of attack – and access – for potential hackers.Similarly, many “Open” website platforms such as WordPress allow developers to incorporate third-party software to conduct certain functions on the website. These “plug-ins” also require regular updates for the same reasons.Our website health checks are inexpensive and include:
- Updating the content management system core (also checking if automatic updates are turned off or if an update failed)
- Updating outdated plugins
- Updating theme / Design framework
- Running security hardening tools to reduce vulnerability to hacks
- Checking logs for potential traces of harmful requests
- Reviewing the website to ensure all looks well after the health check
