WINDOWS SHARED HOSTING SECURITY: HOW TO KEEP YOUR WEBSITE SAFE

Windows Shared Hosting Security: How to Keep Your Website Safe

Windows Shared Hosting Security: How to Keep Your Website Safe

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Security is a major concern in the digital world today, especially for those who are using shared hosting. Windows Shared Hosting can be used for sites that use Microsoft technologies, such as ASP.NET and MSSQL. It does come with certain security challenges, which must be addressed if you want to protect your website from cyber threats.


This guide will compare Linux cPanel shared hosting with Windows shared hosting security. We'll also discuss how to take action to secure your website.

Understanding Windows Shared Host Security


Windows Shared Hosting involves the hosting of several websites on a single Windows Server OS . Shared hosting allows for more cost-effectiveness, but it also introduces security risks. These risks include

  • Malware: Hackers who inject malicious scripts are often attracted to shared hosting environments.

  • DoS Attacks: By overloading a server, you can bring down all the websites that are hosted there.

  • Unauthorized Entry: Poor Security Configurations may allow attackers the opportunity to exploit vulnerabilities within Windows-based applications.

  • Data Breaches Improper Database security can expose sensitive data about users.


Windows Shared Host Security: What you need to Know


1. Keep your CMS and applications updated


A major security threat is outdated software. Update ASP.NET, WordPress, Joomla, and all other CMS platforms. Regular updates fix security flaws that hackers exploit.

2. Secure Passwords & MFA


Weak passwords lead to security breaches. Always use:

  • Strong passwords that include a mixture of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters.

  • Multi-factor authentication (MFA), for Windows Remote Desktop & control panel logins.


3. Windows Firewall & IIS Security Features


Windows Server provides powerful security features:

  • Windows Defender Firewall Protects you against unauthorised access.

  • Request Filtering in IIS: helps block malicious requests from reaching your website.

  • IP Whitelisting : Restrict admin panels access to specific IP address.


4. SSL certificates are a must-have for all businesses.


An SSL cert encrypts all data sent between the client and server. This prevents man in the middle attacks. Windows Shared hosting providers must offer SSL Certificates that are either free or paid. This will secure your login pages, checkout process, and sensitive information.

5. Regularly scan your computer for viruses and vulnerabilities


Use Windows Defender (or Sitelock) or third-party tools for scanning for malware and vulnerabilities. Hosting providers will often include automated security scans in their services.

6. Perform regular backups


Data loss can occur due to hacking, server crashes, or accidental deletions. Regular backups ensure you can restore your website quickly. You can use tools such as Acronis Backup, or ask your hosting provider if they offer automated backups.

7. Limit user access to FTP and User Permissions


Following these best practices will help you minimize your security risk.

  • Do not assign more permissions than necessary to users or scripts.

  • Use instead of FTP to transfer encrypted files.

  • Disable administrative accounts that are no longer in use to prevent unauthorized logins.


Windows Shared Host vs. Linux with cPanel shared hosting: security comparison


cPanel Linux Shared Host is also a popular hosting solution. It's often compared with Windows Shared Host. How do they differ when it comes to security?






































Feature Windows Shared Host Linux cPanel Shared Hosting
Operating System Windows Server Linux (CentOS, Ubuntu, etc.)
Security Updates Managed by Windows Updates Updates are available through the package manager
Control Panel Plesk SolidCP cPanel
Common Threats IIS Exploits, RDP Attacks cPanel Vulnerabilities, Shell Scripts
Firewall Windows Defender Firewall ConfigServer security & firewall (CSF),
Malware scanning Windows Defender, Sitelock ClamAV, Imunify360

Linux with cPanel shared hosting offers a more secure alternative due to its frequent security updates, and the extensive community support. However, both platforms must be configured with the right security settings to minimize risk.

Selecting a Secure Windows Hosted Hosting Provider


When choosing a Windows Shared Host provider, consider the following security factors:

  • Firewall built-in prevents unauthorized access.

  • Automatic Malware Removal for early detection of threats.

  • Regular security patching is required for Windows Server and IIS applications, as well as database applications.

  • DDoS Protection to mitigate large-scale cyberattacks.

  • Security Monitoring 24 hours a day, 7 days a week responds quickly to threats.


You can also read our conclusion.


Windows Shared Hosting offers a stable environment for Microsoft applications. However, it comes with some security issues. By using best practices like updating software, installing SSL certificates, activating firewalls and making regular backups you can enhance the security of your site. Selecting a hosting provider that has strong security features will also protect your website against cyber threats.

Linux cPanel Shared Hosting may be a viable alternative for those who value security and flexibility. In a shared hosting environment, you must take proactive measures to protect your website.

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