Key takeaways:
- SiteLock scans your site daily for malware and automatically fixes any issues. This means you don’t have to worry about security—it’s all handled for you.
- Keeping payment data secure is easy with SiteLock, which helps eCommerce sites stay payment card industry (PCI) compliant.
- SiteLock monitors blacklists to keep your emails out of spam folders. Plus, the Trust Seal shows visitors that your site is safe and secure.
Nearly everyone goes online now to shop, socialize, or simply unwind. Recognizing this shift, many businesses are creating their own websites to boost credibility and offer a central hub for their services.
While an online presence provides many benefits, it also brings considerable cybersecurity risks. In 2024 alone, global cyber threats are estimated to cost around $9 trillion. With the majority of these attacks targeting small to medium-sized businesses, it’s clear that startups need to prioritize website security as early as possible.
One of the best ways to do that is by using SiteLock to safeguard your site’s code and web applications. Let’s take a closer look at what SiteLock is and how it works.
What is SiteLock?
SiteLock is one of the best cloud-based cybersecurity solutions for websites. It is so comprehensive that many leading hosting providers offer it as an add-on feature.
Small and big businesses alike can benefit greatly from using SiteLock security. As a comprehensive website security software, it performs daily scans to identify vulnerabilities and threats like viruses, malware, and cross-site scripting.
And while it notifies you if any issues are found, SiteLock will also find and fix security issues automatically.
On top of that, the system protects your website’s reputation too. By regularly verifying credentials and contact information, SiteLock prevents sites from being flagged or blacklisted by search engines and email providers. This makes sure that your emails reach your customers’ inboxes instead of ending up in spam folders.
SiteLock security features
SiteLock offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to protect your website data from various cyber threats. Here’s an overview of its key features:
- Daily malware scanning
- Web application firewall (WAF)
- Vulnerability CMS patching (web database scanning)
- Content delivery network (CDN)
- Blacklist monitoring
- PCI compliance scanning
- Website backup and restoration
- SiteLock’s Trust Seal
We cover each feature below, so you know what you’re getting when you add SiteLock to your account.
Daily malware scanning
SiteLock’s website scanner checks your website every day for malware or suspicious code. If it finds something, it takes care of it automatically, so you don’t have to stress about it.
If the scan comes up clean, you’ll still get a notification. You’ll also get access to automatic security solutions such as vulnerability patching and website backup, which can be especially useful on higher-tier plans or when a specific threat needs more specialized care.
Web application firewall (WAF)
The WAF serves as a protective barrier between your site and incoming traffic from both visitors and bots. Here’s what it does:
- Protects against data breaches. It blocks attacks like SQL injection and cross-site scripting. This helps keep your customers’ login credentials, payment info, and other personal data safe.
- Stops fake traffic from bots. While not always directly harmful, bot traffic can slow down your site and create a frustrating experience for real users.
Vulnerability CMS patching (web database scanning)
SiteLock checks for weak spots in your CMS or website builder’s code, plugins, and themes, which are common targets for hackers. When it finds something risky, it sends you an alert.
On higher-tier plans, SiteLock may even patch certain issues automatically to help keep your site secure.
Content delivery network (CDN)
SiteLock’s CDN helps your website load faster by serving content from servers closer to your visitors. This reduces lag and improves overall performance. It also keeps your site more stable when there’s a sudden spike in visitors.
Additionally, SiteLock’s CDN can handle high volumes of website traffic while minimizing lag time, which enhances site speed and search engine optimization (SEO).
Blacklist monitoring
No security system is perfect, which is why it’s important to stay on top of security practices. If malware sneaks in and takes over your site or user data, Google Safe Browsing or Spamhaus may blacklist your website.
When this happens, visitors can’t access your site, and emails from your domain could end up in spam folders. SiteLock helps by regularly checking if your site’s been blacklisted and alerts you right away, so you can act fast and keep things running smoothly.
PCI compliance scanning
It only takes one small mistake for a hacker to access customer data. That’s why major credit card companies like Visa, Mastercard, and Amex created PCI compliance standards. These are especially important for an online store, where vulnerabilities are more common.
SiteLock helps cover key PCI requirements. It removes malware, fixes CMS vulnerabilities, and includes a WAF to keep hackers out.
Website backup and quick restoration
SiteLock creates regular backups of your website. If something goes wrong, like a security issue or a broken update, you won’t have to start from scratch. You can roll your site back quickly and get things running again on the spot.
Trust Seal
The SiteLock Trust Seal is a badge of honor for many websites. While using it is optional, websites that display it show visitors they’ve taken proactive steps to secure their site.
The seal only appears if any security issues, like malware or vulnerabilities, are resolved within 72 hours of being reported.
Why does your website need SiteLock?
A single website security breach can cost small to medium enterprises up to $2.98 million. For small businesses, it’s the kind of loss that could shut everything down. From legal fees to lost revenue, the damage adds up quickly.
On top of that, you’d face disruptions to your website’s operations and a loss of customer trust. These can be hard to recover from, and SiteLock can help you prevent all that. Here’s how it helps:
Gives peace of mind with automatic website security
Real-time monitoring of your website 24/7 isn’t practical. With SiteLock, you get a reliable security solution that continuously protects your site, so it stays secure without requiring constant attention.
Additionally, SiteLock keeps you informed by sending regular reports, so you’re always up to date on your site’s status.
Keeps your website fast and prevents downtime
Even small issues, like a broken plugin or a sudden traffic spike, can take your site offline. That affects customer experience and can damage your credibility. SiteLock helps catch these issues early, so website owners have peace of mind when it comes to their site’s performance.
Gives you time to focus on what matters
With SiteLock handling security in the background, you can spend more time on the things that grow your business. That includes managing your inventory, creating engaging content, or connecting with your customers.
A secure site also supports better search rankings since Google favors websites that are safe and trusted by visitors.
What threats does SiteLock protect your website from?
SiteLock helps guard your website against a wide range of digital threats that can affect its security, performance, and reputation. Here are some of the most common risks it protects against:
- Malware
- Cross-site scripting (XSS)
- SQL injection
- Brute force login attempts
- Bot attacks
- Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks
You’ll find a more thorough explanation of these threats below.
Malware
Malware is malicious software that hackers use to steal sensitive data, damage your website, and even compromise your visitors’ devices. It’s a serious threat that can impact both your site’s security and your users’ safety.
Cross-site scripting (XSS)
XSS attacks happen when hackers insert harmful scripts into your site, often through form fields or comment boxes. These scripts run in a visitor’s browser and can steal login details, redirect users, or spread more malware.
Sequence query language (SQL) injection
On website builders, you won’t see it happen, but every time a user logs in, a set of commands runs in the background to pull up the right data. It’s often weak spots in these login forms, search bars, and URL fields that hackers try to exploit.
If they find a vulnerable code, all they need to do is insert their own to bypass admin checks and gain access or alter sensitive customer information. This is a major risk for websites that collect personal or financial data.
Brute-force login attempts
Hackers use automated tools to guess login credentials by trying thousands of combinations, posing significant code and cyber threats. SiteLock helps detect and stop these attempts before they result in a breach.
Bot attacks
Malicious bots can flood your site with fake traffic, scrape content, or search for weak spots to exploit. SiteLock filters out harmful bots to protect your site and keep your analytics accurate.
Distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks
DDoS attacks aim to overload your website with traffic and force it offline. These attacks can also act as a diversion, drawing your attention away from other, more targeted threats.
SiteLock helps block these attacks using its TrueShield WAF to filter out malicious traffic. It also uses its CDN to spread traffic across multiple servers, which lightens the load when high-volume requests come in.
SiteLock’s pricing and plans on Network Solutions
SiteLock’s trusted website security is easier and more affordable through Network Solutions. With SiteLock plans through Network Solutions, setup is automatic—no need for manual configuration. It integrates directly into your hosting, so you can turn it on and let it protect your website automatically.
Keep your site risk-free for 30 days with these plans. Website owners looking for vital features like basic scanning and backup solutions will find these plans ideal. With automatic protection from day one, you can have peace of mind while focusing on growing your business.
SiteLock Premium
This is the entry-level plan designed for basic protection. It includes daily malware scanning for up to 500 pages, vulnerability checks, automatic malware removal, and the SiteLock Trust Seal.
It’s a great fit for blogs, small business websites, or sites that don’t collect sensitive customer data. If you’re just starting out and want to prevent cyberattacks without overcomplicating things, this plan does the job.
SiteLock Defend
SiteLock Defend is a more advanced plan meant for growing websites and eCommerce stores. It includes everything in Premium, plus a WAF, global CDN, dynamic content caching, and protection against the OWASP Top 10 threats..
This is ideal if you’re handling transactions, managing user data, or just want extra protection without sacrificing site speed or performance.
SiteLock 911
SiteLock 911 is a one-time, emergency service for websites that are already infected or taken offline. It’s fast, effective, and doesn’t require technical setup—especially when activated through Network Solutions.
Most sites are cleaned within 2 hours, and you’ll get real-time email updates as the cleanup happens. It’s a solid choice when you’re in crisis mode and need help, fast.
With SiteLock 911, you can automatically protect your website. This, of course, guarantees the safety and reputation of your site and its visitors from a range of threats.
How to know if your website has SiteLock
Not sure if your site is protected by SiteLock? Here are a few ways to find out:
Check your hosting account
Log into your hosting account and navigate to the SiteLock section. If it’s included in your plan, you’ll be able to manage or view your SiteLock services directly.
Inspect the page source code
Right-click on your page and select View Page Source. Look for references to SiteLock scripts or URLs like cdn.sitelock.com. If you find these, it’s a strong indicator that SiteLock is active on your site.
Contact your hosting provider
If you’re still unsure, reach out to your hosting provider’s support team. They can confirm whether SiteLock is included in your hosting plan and assist you with any additional steps to activate or check your protection.
SiteLock vs CodeGuard vs SSL: Which security solution is right for you?
When it comes to keeping your website safe, there are several options out there and sometimes it can be a bit overwhelming to figure out which one you need.
In this comparison, we’ll break down the three major players in website protection: SiteLock, CodeGuard, and SSL certificates. Each one offers unique benefits, so let’s dive into what makes them stand out.
| Feature | SiteLock | CodeGuard | SSL Certificate |
| Focus & Benefit | Comprehensive website security (malware detection, vulnerability patching, firewall) | Automated backups and fast recovery | Encrypts sensitive data and ensures secure connections |
| Protection Offered | Malware detection, vulnerability scanning, WAF, daily backups, and recovery | Daily backups, one-click restore, protection from data loss | Secures data transmission (login details, payments) |
| SSL Encryption | Available as part of the service | Not included | Provides secure HTTPS connections |
| Pricing | $7.57/month for basic plans | Starts at $49/month | Free with most hosting plans. |
| Do You Need It? | Yes, if you need comprehensive, ongoing security for your website | Yes, if you need reliable backups and quick recovery | Yes, if you handle sensitive data like logins or payments |
Note: Prices shown are based on data available as of July 2025. Actual rates may vary by provider and are subject to change.
SiteLock
SiteLock provides comprehensive website security with features like malware detection, vulnerability patching, and a web application firewall. While other services may offer partial protection, SiteLock focuses on keeping your site safe from all types of threats, 24/7.
If you want full-spectrum protection from malware, bot attacks, and vulnerabilities, SiteLock is the complete solution for securing your online presence.
CodeGuard
While SiteLock offers basic backups as part of its security features, CodeGuard focuses on daily backups and one-click restores. Which is why it’s the go-to solution for quick and reliable recovery.
If your website relies on up-to-date data and needs a dedicated backup solution, CodeGuard provides more robust protection than SiteLock’s backup feature alone.
SSL Certificates
SSL certificates protect sensitive information like login credentials and payment details by encrypting data between your website and visitors’ browsers. They’re not always required but highly recommended, especially if you’re handling transactions or personal data.
SSL certificates also improve your SEO since Google favors secure sites. A site with an SSL certificate also displays a padlock icon in the address bar which builds trust and shows your site is secure.
You can also get yours for free with our Essential and Premium hosting plans for a minimum 12-month commitment.
Which one should you choose?
Start with SSL to secure sensitive data, build trust with your visitors, and improve your SEO. Consider prioritizing SiteLock for proactive protection as well. It’s more affordable to stop threats early than deal with them later. With SiteLock, you can focus on growing your business while it handles security.
As your site grows, CodeGuard becomes a great option. Its specialty is automatic backups, which make sure your data is safe and easy to restore whenever you need it.
Strengthen your website security with SiteLock
Cyber threats and security breaches become more complex every day, which makes website security an urgent priority. For small to medium businesses, securing your site is a necessity.
With SiteLock, you can establish a robust security system to protect websites from modern cybercriminals and gain your customers’ trust while you focus on growing your business’s success. By elevating your site security, you also avoid unnecessary costs and improve your SEO.
Don’t wait until it’s too late! Be proactive against threats and get started with SiteLock today!
Frequently asked questions
SiteLock is a comprehensive website security tool designed to protect your site from a wide range of threats. It offers all-around support, including website scanning, backups, and vulnerability patching. SiteLock also addresses malware directly and provides real-time updates, keeping you informed about any issues that may need your attention.
SiteLock sends you notifications when malware is detected and removed. The automated malware removal ensures your site stays secure without you needing to intervene.
Yes, SiteLock provides website security software while SSL encrypts data between your site and visitors. Together, they offer complete protection for your website.
SiteLock isn’t free but you can try it with a risk-free trial for a month. However, you need to purchase it directly from SiteLock.
A firewall is helpful, but SiteLock provides comprehensive protection with malware detection, vulnerability patching, and automatic malware removal. It gives you additional layers of security beyond a basic firewall so you can prevent millions of hacks.
No, SiteLock runs quietly in the background without affecting your site’s speed. It even helps improve load times with its Content Delivery Network (CDN).
If your SiteLock plan was purchased through Network Solutions, the only way to cancel your subscription is by contacting our Customer Support. While many hosting providers let you manage or cancel add-ons directly from your dashboard, we require all billing changes to go through our support team.
Absolutely. In fact, small businesses should use SiteLock. The misconception that businesses with limited data don’t need advanced security is exactly why they often become prime targets for hackers. While it does add to the monthly expense, SiteLock is definitely worth the investment to protect your site and your business.
Without SiteLock and other security measures, your website becomes vulnerable to cyberattacks. These attacks can jeopardize customer data, damage your brand’s reputation, and may even lead to losing control of your website. As a result, you could lose customer trust and face penalties from search engines, making it harder to recover.
While SiteLock isn’t compulsory, it offers significant benefits. In addition to keeping your website safe, its real-time updates provide peace of mind, ensuring that vulnerability issues and malware are either resolved or brought to your attention.
