Your website is a key asset for your business. Whether you’re a small business owner, executive director, or website manager, knowing the essential details of your website ensures its security, functionality, and adaptability. These details include the login credentials for your site, domain registrar, hosting provider, social media accounts, Google My Business (GMB), email host, and payment processors like Stripe, Square, or PayPal. Think of them as the “Keys to Your Digital Kingdom,” the tools that keep your online presence in your control.
Why You Must Know Your Website’s Details
1. Maintaining Control
Regardless of who builds or manages your site, it’s vital that you have access to updated login credentials and key digital information. Without these, you risk losing control in cases like staff changes or a vendor shutting down. For example, if you hire someone to redesign your website, you’ll need access to your domain registrar to launch the new site.
2. Enabling Smooth Transitions
Switching hosting providers, redesigning your site, or making staff changes will be challenging without quick access to credentials. You won’t have to contact third parties or search for lost logins if you keep these details promptly available.
3. Solving Problems Quickly
If your website goes down, lags, or faces a hack, having login credentials allows you to act fast. Quick access to your site’s backend minimizes disruptions to operations and reduces negative impacts on your reputation.
Key Website Information to Track
Domain Registrar
This is where you bought your domain name, such as GoDaddy or NameCheap. Keeping login details ensures you can renew, update, or transfer your domain when needed. It’s wise to purchase the domain yourself even if hiring a web designer, as it prevents the risk of losing control if the designer fails to deliver or renew it.
Hosting Provider
Your hosting provider, like Bluehost or SiteGround, is where your website lives on the internet. Knowing this information helps with maintenance, fixes, and any transitions needed. If you’re unsure where your website is hosted, follow financial records or consult your accounting team to trace the provider.
Email Hosting
Email hosting is critical for functions like “Contact Us” forms. Whether it’s hosted via Gmail (Google Workspace) or Outlook, knowing these credentials lets you manage accounts and troubleshoot email-related site issues.
Website Login Credentials
You must have admin access to your website’s backend. This access is essential when adding or removing users, making updates, or resolving issues. Even if a third party manages your site, never delegate full control without keeping admin access for yourself.
Social Media Accounts
Having multiple admins on social media accounts adds a layer of security while ensuring smooth management. This prevents disruptions like losing access if one admin runs into issues. Login details allow you to manage brand reputation and connections to the website.
Payment Processor Access
For businesses handling online transactions, knowledge of where and how your payment gateways like PayPal, Stripe, or Square are managed is critical. This ensures continuity in processing payments and resolving technical issues.
Google My Business (GMB)
A GMB profile boosts your visibility in search results, allowing customers to leave reviews, get directions, or access your contact information. If you don’t yet have a GMB, set one up and keep the login details handy to manage your local SEO.
Take Ownership of Your Digital Kingdom
Securing the keys to your digital kingdom helps you protect your business and maintain control over its online presence. Keeping this information organized and accessible ensures quick resolution in crises, smooth transitions, and overall resilience. Download our free resource to track these details in one place, and set regular reminders to review and update your information. By taking these steps, you’ll safeguard your business’s digital security and ensure it thrives.
