Greenhouse Creative

Content on Cyber Security in Web Development: Silverstripe vs. WordPress

In today's digital landscape, cybersecurity has become a paramount concern for businesses of all sizes. With the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks, companies are placing a growing focus on enhancing their security measures to protect sensitive data and maintain the trust of their customers. As part of this effort, businesses need to pay closer attention to the areas of their operations that are vulnerable to attacks and take proactive steps to mitigate risks.

Choosing the right content management system (CMS) is a crucial part of this strategy. Two CMS systems we find customers frequently comparing are Silverstripe and WordPress. WordPress is the most widely used CMS globally, but it is also a frequent target for cyberattacks due to its extensive use and reliance on third-party plugins. On the other hand, Silverstripe offers a strong alternative with a focus on built-in security and robust development practices.

In this blog, we will compare the cybersecurity features of Silverstripe and WordPress. We will discuss their built-in security measures, the role of third-party plugins and extensions, their community support, and ways in which they expose themselves to - or protect against - common vulnerabilities. By the end of this comparison, you will have a clearer understanding of which platform might be the best fit for your web development projects, particularly from a security standpoint.

Overview of the Platforms

Silverstripe is a modern and highly customisable content management system (CMS) and framework designed for creating and managing websites. It was first released in 2006 and has since gained a reputation for its security and flexibility. Silverstripe is particularly favoured by developers for its modern codebase, robust architecture and developer-focus, which allows for extensive safe customisation and scalability.

WordPress is the most popular CMS in the world, powering over 40% of all websites on the internet. Launched in 2003 as a blogging platform, it has evolved into a versatile CMS capable of handling a wide range of websites, from personal blogs to large e-commerce sites. Its extensive ecosystem of plugins and themes makes it highly customisable, but this popularity also makes it a prime target for cyberattacks.

Common Cybersecurity Threats to Web Platforms

Malware

Malware, or malicious software, is designed to infiltrate, damage, or exploit a website or server. Common forms of malware include viruses, worms, and Trojan horses. Malware can enter a website through various means, such as infected plugins, compromised themes, or insecure code.

Brute Force Attacks

Brute force attacks involve systematically trying different combinations of usernames and passwords until the correct one is found. These attacks can be automated using scripts, making them a persistent threat to any online system. Websites with weak or common passwords are particularly vulnerable.

Other Threats

Additional cybersecurity threats include phishing attacks, denial of service (DoS) attacks, SQL injections, and cross-site scripting (XSS). Each of these methods can cause significant damage if a website is not properly secured.

Security Features and Practices

Silverstripe: Security by Design

Silverstripe prioritises security from the ground up. Its core architecture incorporates intentional security features. For instance, it performs input validation and output escaping to prevent common vulnerabilities like SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS). Regular updates and patches keep the system robust. Developers can create custom modules with specific security features tailored to each website’s needs. Adherence to coding standards ensures secure development practices.

WordPress: The Plugin Ecosystem

WordPress thrives on its vast ecosystem of plugins and themes. While the core software receives regular security updates, the real complexity lies in third-party plugins. These plugins extend functionality but can introduce vulnerabilities if not managed carefully. Security plugins like Wordfence and Sucuri help protect WordPress sites. However, unlike Silverstripe, WordPress allows direct insertion of plugin code from the internet, which can be risky. This ability to easily inject new code without thorough testing increases the risk of introducing vulnerabilities. Moreover, if a WordPress plugin is compromised, the hack can affect all sites using that plugin, especially those with auto-update enabled, leading to widespread security breaches.

Testing Environment: Silverstripe’s Advantage

Silverstripe gains an edge here. Developers can test their custom modules in isolation before deploying them. It’s like a controlled laboratory where they validate changes without affecting the live system. In contrast, WordPress lacks this controlled testing environment. Plugins often go straight from the marketplace to production, which can lead to surprises—both good and bad. Additionally, if there is a hack of the Silverstripe code, it doesn't affect any sites unless a composer update is pulled down. This containment strategy limits the impact of potential vulnerabilities compared to WordPress.

When considering a content management system (CMS) for web development, security becomes paramount. Silverstripe shines with its inherent security features, consistent updates, and adherence to secure coding practices. However, WordPress—a juggernaut in popularity and flexibility—presents a different landscape. While it empowers users to swiftly create their websites, it demands vigilance. Non-technical users may find themselves navigating a maze of third-party plugins and themes, each potentially introducing vulnerabilities. The allure of simplicity clashes with the need for expertise in hardening and securing the platform. WordPress’s open-door policy to plugin code, often untested, adds an element of risk that users must weigh carefully.

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and resources. For businesses that prioritise security, brand alignment, and a need for a highly customisable platform, Silverstripe is a strong contender. However it isn’t for beginners - Silverstripe leverages many modern web development tools and practices which often means engaging a specialist agency to develop the site.  WordPress also offers security features but requires more diligence in managing third-party components. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each platform, you can make an informed decision that best protects your online presence.