Website maintenance depends on the type of website you have and the platform it runs on.
CMS websites (such as WordPress)
If you have a CMS website, ongoing maintenance is essential to keep it secure and working as technology changes.
Website administration is performed via the backend with full administrator access.
Key maintenance tasks include:
- Software security updates – keeping the core CMS software secure
- Third-party software updates – updating plugins and extensions
- Website backups – protecting your data in case of issues
Updates need to be applied promptly, because a security fix only protects your site once it is installed. Regular updates also keep your site compatible with evolving technology.
WordPress can be set up to apply updates automatically, and many hosting plans include backups. Automatic updates reduce the workload, and someone still needs to check the site after each update and confirm that a backup can be restored when it is needed.
Learn more: What is a CMS?
SaaS websites (Squarespace, Shopify & Wix)
If you have a SaaS platform website such as Shopify or Squarespace, maintenance is handled by the platform and included in your monthly fee.
This means:
- No manual software updates required
- Automatic security patches applied
- Built-in hosting and maintenance support
While SaaS platforms reduce the need for technical upkeep, it’s still important to regularly update website content and review performance.
Read more: What is a SaaS?
Choosing the right level of maintenance
The platform you choose has a direct impact on how much ongoing technical management your site needs. It’s worth factoring this in when deciding between a CMS and a SaaS platform, especially if you don’t have someone technical on hand to handle updates.
Compare platforms: What is the best website platform for your organisation?
Need help managing your website?
We hand your website over at the end of the project. If you have a CMS website and want advice on keeping it maintained and secure, that’s something we can help with as part of a broader Cyber Security & Safety or Digital Setup engagement. We also advise on the best hosting packages from providers that handle most of the technical upkeep automatically.
