Your website needs regular maintenance to stay secure, fast, and effective. Here is what ongoing website maintenance involves and why it matters.
Why Maintenance is Essential
- Security - Outdated software gets hacked
- Performance - Sites slow down without optimization
- Compatibility - Browsers and devices evolve
- Content freshness - Outdated info hurts credibility
- SEO - Google favors maintained sites
An unmaintained website is a liability, not an asset.
Regular Maintenance Tasks
Weekly:
- Backup website and database
- Check for errors or broken links
- Monitor uptime
Monthly:
- Update WordPress, plugins, themes
- Review security scans
- Test contact forms
- Check analytics for issues
Quarterly:
- Content review and updates
- Performance optimization
- SEO review
- User experience assessment
What Maintenance Plans Include
Basic ($50-100/month):
- Software updates
- Daily backups
- Security monitoring
- Uptime monitoring
Standard ($100-200/month):
- Everything in basic
- Content updates (limited hours)
- Performance optimization
- Monthly reporting
Premium ($200-500/month):
- Everything in standard
- Priority support
- More content update hours
- SEO monitoring
- Conversion optimization
DIY Maintenance
If handling yourself, at minimum:
- Set up automated backups
- Update software monthly
- Install security plugin
- Use uptime monitoring (free options exist)
- Check site monthly for issues
DIY works for simple sites if you commit the time.
Website maintenance is not optional - it is part of owning a website. Budget for it from the start, whether handling yourself or hiring professionals.