Small businesses risk losing their website

Many small businesses are becoming reliant on external web professionals, which could leave their website in jeopardy, new research suggests.

According to web hosting provider, Fasthost 43% of small businesses are reliant on external web specialists.

Fasthost suggest that many firms risk losing their website as half of those who rely on external web specialists admit being unable to publish any changes to their website themselves where another 80% of firms said they had no facility for switching their website on and off independently.

Furthermore, 70% said they do not have all their domain names registered in their own name or business name and about 60% they do not have contact details or passwords for their host provider.

Marketing director of Fasthosts, Steve Holford, advises that all businesses take simple measures to retain some basic control of their website and protect their investment. He said:

“Should arrangements suddenly change, business owners should be equipped to make changes to their online identity and maintain contact with their online audience.”

“As external parties can come and go, it is vital that businesses protect themselves from potential disruption, losses and reputation damage that an offline or out-of-date website can cause.”