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  • Is my CMS secure?

    Is my CMS secure?Last week I was asked if an Open Source Content Management System (CMS) is more secure than a proprietary CMS. Before I answer this question let me explain the difference between the two. A CMS is a software system that allows you to edit your own website by creating new pages or adding new functionality such as e-commerce, blogs, or member only areas.

    • Open Source CMSes such as WordPress, Joomla or E107 are systems that are developed by thousands of developers that share their code and everyone can download the CMS for free.
    • Proprietary systems such as Microsoft, IBM or custom made CMSes offered by software development companies normally have annual licence fees or you can only use it while you stay with the company providing the CMS.

    Which is more secure?

    Technically speaking, Open Source systems are more secure because anyone can read the code and assess whether it is secure whereas the proprietary systems are "closed source" so there's no way of knowing if the code is secure. However, Open Source CMSes are now facing the same problems that the Windows Operating System faces. Because they are so popular there are more hacking attempts against them. This is why many companies (including Spinning Planet) not only offer an Open Source CMS but also provide security systems and updates to ensure reliability, security and ongoing support.

    Should I choose an Open Source CMS or a Proprietary CMS?

    In most cases I'd recommend using an Open Source CMS because:

    1. Development on Open Source CMSes is happening a lot faster than proprietary systems because there are thousands of programmers so you can take advantage of new developments a lot faster instead of being tied down to a proprietary system that is slow to change.
    2. It's cheaper to implement new features on your website because there are more programmers to choose from and the systems are designed to be modular and grow. If your website is with a small local company with a proprietary system then you have no control over price and are locked into using their service.
    3. If you want to change web hosts or web designers there are many other companies that can help you. With a proprietary system you may not even be able to change web hosts or providers. A local web company here in Palmerston North who had a proprietary system went out of business and left thousands of clients with a CMS that no-one would support so eventually they will all have to build entirely new websites.

    As you can see, the security of the CMS is not just the software itself but the place where it's hosted, the longevity of the company that supports you and the software's ability to grow to meet your needs. If someone tells you that proprietary CMSes are more secure than Open Source CMSes they're not being honest with you. 

    brynn :-)


    Brynn Neilson About
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