Website security is a critical concern for anyone running an online presence. When signing up for Bluehost hosting, you’ll likely be offered CodeGuard Basic as an add-on. But is it worth the extra cost, or are there better alternatives? Here’s an honest assessment for 2026.
What is CodeGuard Basic?
CodeGuard is an automated website backup service that creates daily backups of your files and database, stores them offsite, and allows easy restoration if something goes wrong.
CodeGuard Basic Features
Daily automatic backups: Your site is backed up every day without manual intervention.
Offsite storage: Backups are stored separately from your hosting, protecting against server failures.
One-click restore: Easily restore your site to any previous backup point.
Change monitoring: Get notified when files on your site change unexpectedly.
Is It Worth It?
Consider CodeGuard if:
• You’re not comfortable managing your own backups
• You want set-it-and-forget-it protection
• Your site is business-critical and downtime is costly
Skip CodeGuard if:
• You use WordPress with backup plugins like UpdraftPlus or BlogVault
• Your host already includes automated backups
• You’re comfortable with manual backup solutions
Alternatives to Consider
UpdraftPlus: Free WordPress plugin with cloud storage integration.
BlogVault: WordPress-specific backup with staging and migration features.
JetBackup: Often included free with cPanel hosting.
Related Hosting Resources
Choosing the right hosting and security setup is essential for your website. Explore Bluehost alternatives to compare hosting providers, check out managed WordPress hosting options for optimized performance, and discover website builder solutions if you’re starting fresh.
Bottom Line
CodeGuard Basic is a solid backup solution, but it’s not essential if you have alternatives in place. For WordPress users, free plugins often provide similar functionality. Evaluate your specific needs before adding it to your hosting package.