Website Security Basics Every Developer Should Know
Essential security practices for building websites that protect user data and prevent common attacks.
Start with Strong Authentication
Authentication is about proving users are who they say they are. Always use strong password requirements and never store passwords in plain text. Instead, use modern hashing algorithms that convert passwords into unreadable strings. Add two-factor authentication for important accounts - this requires users to provide two forms of identification, like a password plus a code sent to their phone.
Control Access Carefully
Once users are authenticated, you need to control what they can do. This is called authorization. Follow the principle of least privilege - give users only the access they absolutely need. If someone only needs to view reports, don't give them permission to delete data. Regular users shouldn't have admin powers. Check permissions for every action, every time.
Protect Against Common Attacks
Several common attacks target websites. SQL injection happens when attackers try to run harmful database commands through your forms. Prevent this by always validating and sanitizing user input. Cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks try to inject malicious scripts into your pages. Protect against this by escaping user input and using secure frameworks. Cross-site request forgery (CSRF) tricks users into performing actions they didn't intend. Prevent this with proper tokens and validation.
Keep Everything Updated
Software vulnerabilities get discovered regularly. Hackers look for websites using outdated software with known security holes. Keep everything updated - your framework, libraries, server software, and dependencies. Set up a schedule to check for and apply updates. Outdated software is one of the most common reasons websites get hacked.
Use HTTPS Everywhere
HTTPS encrypts data between users and your website. This prevents others from seeing what users are doing or stealing their information. Get an SSL certificate (many are free) and force all traffic to use HTTPS. Modern browsers warn users when they visit sites without HTTPS, which hurts trust and credibility.
Validate All Input
Never trust data from users. Validate everything that comes into your website - forms, URLs, file uploads, everything. Check that email addresses look like email addresses, that numbers are actually numbers, and that text fields don't contain harmful code. Reject anything that doesn't match expected patterns.
Prepare for Breaches
Despite best efforts, breaches can happen. Have a plan ready. Use encryption for sensitive data so even if hackers access your database, they can't read the information. Keep regular backups in secure locations. Know who to contact and what steps to take if a security incident occurs. Being prepared reduces damage and recovery time.
Conclusion: Website security isn't one big action but many small, consistent practices. Strong authentication, careful authorization, protection against common attacks, regular updates, HTTPS everywhere, input validation, and breach preparation work together to create secure websites that protect both users and businesses.
