The most common mistakes people make when choosing and running web hosting, from relying on the host's backups to registering a domain in someone else's name.
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- Choosing on the introductory price alone. Check the renewal price.
- Registering the domain in someone else's name. Make sure you are the registrant, or you may struggle to move it later.
- Relying only on the host's backups. Keep your own copy somewhere else.
- Not turning on two-factor authentication. Protect your hosting, domain and site admin accounts.
- Skipping updates. Out-of-date plugins and themes are a common route for attacks.
- Ignoring where the data centre is. Distance affects speed, and location can matter for data protection.
- Not testing restores. A backup you cannot restore is not a backup.
- Using the host's email for everything. If you move hosts, email can break. Consider a separate email service.
- Forgetting cookie consent. UK law requires consent for non-essential cookies, such as most analytics and advertising cookies.
- Letting the domain expire. Turn on auto-renew and keep your contact email up to date.
Sources and further reading
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.