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Take the Wheel: Why You Should Keep Control of Your Website

Let’s face it—your website is the beating heart of your business. It’s how your customers find you, learn about you, and choose to work with you. So why would anyone hand over the keys to something so important?

Keeping control of your website is essential for protecting your business and avoiding unnecessary headaches. At Cider House Media, we’ve seen far too many clients come to us after their websites were held hostage—sometimes literally. It’s frustrating, unfair, and completely avoidable.

With nearly 25 years in the business, we’ve learned what can happen when business owners lose control of their websites. Spoiler alert: It’s never pretty.

Hostage Negotiations: A Common (and Avoidable) Tale

A few years ago, we worked with a client whose previous web developer refused to release their domain name or hosting information. This developer—an independent freelancer—was using their control as leverage in a business dispute.

Imagine being locked out of your own website. It’s unprofessional, unethical, and unfortunately, not uncommon. While we were able to negotiate access and resolve the issue, it was a stressful ordeal for the client that could have been avoided if they’d retained ownership of their domain and hosting accounts from the start.

The Unexpected: When the Worst Happens

Another client called us in a panic after their freelance web developer passed away suddenly. This developer had been managing everything—domain registration, hosting, updates, backups. When their website went down, the developer’s spouse, unfamiliar with the business, was left scrambling.

By the time the client contacted us, they were facing significant downtime and no clear path forward. We stepped in, identified the hosting provider, and worked with them to get the site back online. But the chaos highlighted the risks of leaving your entire digital presence in the hands of one person.

Why You Need to Keep Control of Your Website

These stories aren’t just cautionary tales—they’re reminders of why every business owner needs to maintain control over their website. Here’s what that means in practice:

1. You Own the Domain

Your domain name is your online identity. Always register it under your name or your business’s name—not your developer’s.

2. You Control Hosting

Set up your hosting account and keep those login credentials in a safe place. If you work with a developer, that’s fine—but the account should be yours.

3. You Have Access to Backups

Regular backups are your safety net. Make sure you have direct access to them and know how to restore your site if something goes wrong.

4. You Understand Your Email Hosting

Email tied to your domain is critical for communication. Ensure it’s managed through a reliable provider that you can access independently of your website.

5. You Know the Players

Even if you trust your web team, it’s essential to know who they’re working with—whether it’s a hosting company, a domain registrar, or a third-party tool provider.

Our Philosophy at Cider House Media

We’ve built our reputation on empowering our clients, not locking them out. While we’re happy to manage hosting, updates, and maintenance, we believe you should own the essentials: your domain, hosting account, and content.

When you work with us, you’ll always have:

  • A clear record of your accounts and passwords.
  • Transparent communication about your website’s performance.
  • Guidance on how to maintain control while still relying on us for support.

We don’t want you to feel dependent on us—or anyone else. We’re here to be your guide, not your gatekeeper.

Protect Your Website, Protect Your Business

Handing over full control of your website to someone else might feel convenient, but it’s a risk you can’t afford to take. Whether it’s a hostage situation or an unforeseen tragedy, the consequences of not being in control can be severe.

Your website is too important to leave to chance. Let’s make sure you’re in the driver’s seat, with the keys firmly in your hand.

Ready to take charge? Contact Cider House Media today. Together, we’ll ensure your online presence is secure, accessible, and built to last.

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