Securing your WordPress site is essential to protect it from unauthorized access, malware, and potential data breaches. Follow these best practices to enhance the security of your WordPress website:
1. Keep WordPress Updated
Always update WordPress core, themes, and plugins to their latest versions.
Use a staging site to test updates before applying them to the live site.
2. Use Strong Passwords and User Roles
Use strong, unique passwords for all user accounts.
Implement a password manager to store and generate secure passwords.
Limit user roles to only what’s necessary for their responsibilities.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Use plugins like Two Factor Authentication or Wordfence to enable 2FA for all user accounts.
4. Install a Security Plugin
Use reputable security plugins such as:
Wordfence Security
Sucuri Security
iThemes Security
Regularly run malware scans and implement firewall rules.
5. Secure Your Login Page
Change the default login URL from /wp-admin or /wp-login.php to a custom URL using plugins like WPS Hide Login.
Limit login attempts to prevent brute force attacks with plugins like Limit Login Attempts Reloaded.
6. Backup Your Site Regularly
Use plugins like UpdraftPlus, BackupBuddy, or All-in-One WP Migration to create regular backups.
Store backups offsite (e.g., cloud storage or external servers).
7. Use HTTPS (SSL Certificate)
Install an SSL certificate to encrypt data between the server and users.
Many hosting providers offer free SSL certificates through Let’s Encrypt.
8. Harden wp-config.php
Move the wp-config.php file to a directory above the WordPress root.
Add the following to your .htaccess file to deny access:
<files wp-config.php>
order allow,deny
deny from all
</files>
9. Restrict File Permissions
Set file permissions to:
Directories: 755
Files: 644
Disable PHP execution in specific directories (like uploads) by adding this to an .htaccess file:
<Files *.php>
deny from all
</Files>
10. Monitor User Activity
Track user actions using plugins like WP Activity Log to identify suspicious activity.
11. Disable XML-RPC
Unless necessary, disable XML-RPC to prevent brute force attacks and DDoS:
Add this to your .htaccess file:
<Files xmlrpc.php>
Order Deny,Allow
Deny from all
</Files>
Alternatively, use a plugin like Disable XML-RPC.
12. Scan for Malware
Regularly scan your website for vulnerabilities and malware using plugins like:
MalCare Security
Wordfence
Sucuri Scanner
13. Protect Against DDoS Attacks
Use a Content Delivery Network (CDN) with DDoS protection, such as Cloudflare or Sucuri.
14. Secure Your Database
Change the default database prefix (wp_) to something unique, such as mywp_.
Limit database user privileges to only what’s necessary.
15. Disable Directory Indexing
Add the following line to your .htaccess file to prevent attackers from viewing the directory structure:
Options -Indexes
16. Choose a Secure Hosting Provider
Opt for hosting providers specializing in WordPress security, such as WP Engine, SiteGround, or Kinsta.
Ensure they offer features like malware scanning, firewalls, and automated backups.
17. Regularly Audit Your Site
Periodically review installed plugins and themes. Remove any that are outdated or unused.
Conduct a security audit using tools or professional services.
By following these security best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of your WordPress site being compromised. Regularly review and update your security measures to stay protected against emerging threats.