Managed WordPress hosting

Managed WordPress plans usually include WordPress updates, caching tuned for WordPress, backups, staging and support from people who know WordPress. The host looks after the technical side so you can get on with running the site.

'Managed' covers different things at different hosts. Some handle core updates only; others update plugins, scan for malware and clean up if your site is hacked. Some also block plugins that duplicate their own caching or backups.

Example: a small business owner edits their own pages but doesn't want to deal with plugin updates or a slow site. On a managed plan, the host applies updates, takes daily backups and keeps a staging copy, so a risky update can be tested first or rolled back.

What it means for your price: it costs more than basic shared hosting, but saves time. Some plans are priced by the number of sites or monthly visits, with charges if you go over, so check the limits as well as the renewal price.

How to check yours: ask for the host's list of what's included, and compare it with what you'd spend in time or add-ons on ordinary shared hosting.