This article explains how Web60 encrypts your website data to keep it secure both when stored and when transmitted.
Data Encryption at Rest
Encryption at rest means your data is scrambled when stored on our servers, so even if someone gained physical access to the hardware, they couldn't read your information.
Web60 uses AES-256 encryption for all stored data. This is the same standard used by banks and government agencies. Your website files, databases, and backup copies are all encrypted using this method.
The encryption happens automatically - you don't need to set anything up or manage encryption keys. Our systems handle everything in the background while keeping your data protected.
Data Encryption in Transit
When data travels between your computer and our servers, or between our servers and your website visitors, it's protected using SSL/TLS encryption.
Every Web60 website gets a free SSL certificate automatically. This certificate creates an encrypted connection (shown as HTTPS in the address bar) that scrambles data as it travels across the internet.
SSL certificates are renewed automatically before they expire, so your encryption stays active without any action needed from you. If you're having issues with SSL, check our guide on SSL Certificate Not Working.
Database Encryption
Your WordPress database contains all your website content, user information, and settings. Web60 encrypts MySQL databases using transparent data encryption (TDE).
This means your blog posts, pages, user accounts, and any data collected through contact forms is encrypted when stored. The encryption and decryption happen automatically when WordPress needs to read or write data.
For additional protection of sensitive data collected through forms, see our article on Creating a Contact Form which covers secure form handling.
Physical Security Measures
Our data centres use multiple layers of physical security including biometric access controls, 24/7 monitoring, and restricted access areas. These measures work alongside encryption to protect your data.
Servers are housed in secure facilities with backup power systems and climate control. For more details about our infrastructure, read about Data Centre Locations and Infrastructure.
Compliance and Standards
Web60's encryption meets Irish and EU data protection requirements. All encryption methods are regularly updated to maintain the highest security standards as technology evolves.
Backup files stored for disaster recovery are also encrypted using the same AES-256 standard, ensuring your data remains protected even in backup copies.
If you're still stuck or need more information about how encryption affects your specific website setup, contact our support team through your Web60 portal.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to do anything to enable encryption on my website?
A: No, encryption is enabled automatically for all Web60 websites. Both data storage encryption and SSL certificates are set up without any action needed from you.
Q: How can I tell if my website is using HTTPS encryption?
A: Look for "https://" at the start of your website address and a padlock icon in your browser's address bar. These show that SSL encryption is working properly.
Q: What happens if my SSL certificate expires?
A: SSL certificates on Web60 renew automatically before they expire. You'll receive an email notification if there are any issues with the renewal process.
Q: Is the encryption strong enough for collecting customer payments?
A: Yes, Web60 uses bank-grade AES-256 encryption. However, for payment processing, you should use a dedicated payment service like Stripe or PayPal rather than collecting card details directly.
Q: Are my website backups encrypted too?
A: Yes, all backup files are encrypted using the same AES-256 standard as your live website data. This includes both automatic and manual backups.
Q: Can I see or manage the encryption keys?
A: No, encryption keys are managed automatically by Web60's systems. This ensures maximum security and prevents accidental key loss that could make data unreadable.
Q: Does encryption slow down my website?
A: Modern encryption has minimal impact on website speed. The security benefits far outweigh any minor performance effects, which are typically unnoticeable to visitors.
Last updated: 1 March 2026