A website is not finished at launch. Software ages, security threats change and content needs updates. Without maintenance, small problems turn into expensive emergencies.
What maintenance should include
Technical updates
- CMS core, themes and plugins
- Server software (PHP versions, databases)
- Compatibility checks after updates
Security
- Monitoring for malware and suspicious changes
- Firewall and login protection
- SSL certificate renewal
Backups
- Daily automatic backups
- Off-site storage
- Regular restore tests
Performance
- Page speed and Core Web Vitals checks
- Database clean-up and caching
Monitoring
- Uptime checks with alerts
- Broken links and form checks
Support
- A contact for questions and small changes
- Help with new pages, banners and content
The cost of skipping maintenance
- Hacked websites can damage your reputation and leak data
- Outdated PHP versions stop being supported by hosts
- Plugins break after delayed big updates
- Lost leads when forms silently stop working
Emergency repairs usually cost far more than regular care.
How often?
Security updates as soon as they are released, routine checks weekly or monthly, and a broader review a few times a year.
Choosing a plan
Look for clear response times, what is included (and what is billed extra), backup retention and who does the work.
Our Managed Hosting packages include SSL, daily backups and technical support, and we offer maintenance for websites hosted elsewhere – including IONOS accounts.
Planning a project like this? Our AI project assistant asks the right questions for your field and turns your answers into a clear brief – then our team near Munich sends a free, non-binding quote within 24 hours on business days. Start now or read the complete Web Development guide.