Squarespace Security Features Explained
TL;DR:
- Every Squarespace site gets SSL encryption by default
- Built-in DDoS protection stops attackers from overloading your site
- Secure hosting protects your data on Squarespace's servers
- You can strengthen security with strong passwords and careful third-party integrations
- Automatic backups help you recover if something goes wrong
Squarespace handles the heavy lifting when it comes to website security. Here's what protection you get automatically and what you can do to make your site even more secure.
What Squarespace Does for You
SSL Encryption on Every Site
SSL comes standard with all Squarespace sites. This encrypts data between your website and visitors, so personal information stays private during transmission. You'll see the padlock icon in browsers and your site will load over HTTPS.
This happens automatically. You don't need to buy certificates or configure anything.
DDoS Protection
Squarespace protects against DDoS attacks, where bad actors try to crash your site by flooding it with fake traffic. Their infrastructure filters out these attacks before they reach your website.
This protection runs in the background. Most site owners never notice it working because attacks get stopped before causing problems.
Secure Hosting Infrastructure
Your site lives on Squarespace's secure servers. They handle server maintenance, security patches, and infrastructure protection. This covers the technical stuff that would normally fall to you if you hosted elsewhere.
The hosting environment gets monitored 24/7 and updated regularly to address new security threats.
What You Can Control
Strong Account Security
Use a unique, complex password for your Squarespace account. Consider enabling two-factor authentication if you have sensitive customer data or run an online store.
Be careful about who you give admin access to. Only share login details with people who genuinely need them.
Third-Party Integrations
When you connect external services to your Squarespace site, you're extending your security perimeter. Stick to well-known, reputable services and review what data access you're granting.
Remove integrations you no longer use. Old connections to forgotten services create unnecessary risk.
Regular Monitoring
Check your site's activity through the Squarespace dashboard. Look for unusual login attempts or changes you didn't make.
Keep your content backed up. While Squarespace handles automatic backups, you can export your content for local storage as an extra precaution.
FAQs
Can I add extra security features beyond what Squarespace provides?
Your main options are strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and being selective about third-party integrations. Squarespace handles most technical security measures automatically.
How do I check if my site has been compromised?
Monitor your dashboard for unusual activity, unexpected content changes, or login alerts. Contact Squarespace support if you notice anything suspicious.
What happens if my site gets hacked?
Squarespace's security measures make this unlikely, but they can help restore your site from backups if needed. Having your own content export gives you an extra recovery option.
Do I need additional security plugins?
No. Unlike platforms like WordPress, Squarespace doesn't support security plugins. The built-in protections handle what you'd typically use plugins for.
Jargon Buster
SSL (Secure Socket Layer): Encryption that protects data travelling between your website and visitors' browsers.
DDoS Protection: Defence against attacks that try to crash your site by overwhelming it with fake traffic.
Two-Factor Authentication: Extra security step that requires both your password and a code from your phone to log in.
HTTPS: The secure version of HTTP that shows your site is encrypted (look for the padlock in browsers).
Wrap-up
Squarespace takes care of the complex security stuff automatically. SSL, DDoS protection, and secure hosting come standard with every site. Your job is to keep your account secure with strong passwords and be thoughtful about which third-party services you connect.
The platform's approach means you get enterprise-level security without needing technical expertise. Focus your energy on creating great content rather than worrying about server security or SSL certificates.