There are key steps you need to take to protect your WordPress site from threats.
It doesn’t matter if you have a small blog or a big online store, the basics of WordPress security are the same. These rules work for all sizes of websites, protecting them from common threats.
My goal is to help you understand not just what to do, but why each step is important for your site’s security. By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to make your site much safer.
Remember, good security isn’t just about protecting your data – it’s about keeping your hard work safe, making sure your visitors trust you, and helping you worry less. Let’s start securing your WordPress site!
Why Trust WP101?
Since 2008, we’ve helped over 2 million people learn WordPress through our video tutorials. We’ve not only seen users fall prey to security issues, we’ve faced them ourselves.
The security measures we’re sharing? We use them on our own sites. We’re not just talking the talk; we’re walking the walk.
Security can be intimidating, but we’ll guide you through it in a way that’s clear and actionable.
At WP101, we believe in empowering you to manage your WordPress site with confidence. Our goal isn’t just to teach you about website security – it’s to give you the tools and understanding to keep your website safe for years to come.
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What You Need to Know About WordPress Security?
The most common mistake we’ve seen WordPress users make time and time again: thinking their site is too small for hackers to care about. It’s a common misconception that can lead to big problems.
Many website owners, especially beginners, skip important security steps thinking their sites aren’t popular enough to attract hackers. But here’s the truth: hackers don’t care how big or small your site is.
In fact, smaller sites are often easier targets because they usually have less security. Hackers use tools that search the internet for any WordPress site with weak spots, no matter how much traffic it gets.
This mistake has led to many websites getting hacked, causing stress and problems for their owners. It’s a tough lesson that many learn the hard way.
So before we dive into the nitty-gritty of securing your WordPress site, let’s cover some basics:
1. Security is ongoing: It’s not a one-and-done task – you need to keep your site updated and regularly monitor it for any unusual activity or changes.
2. No site is too small: Hackers often target smaller sites because they’re usually less protected. Size doesn’t matter in the world of cybersecurity. Hackers use bots to scan thousands of sites for vulnerabilities. It’s not personal; it’s just business for them.
3. WordPress itself is secure: Most security issues come from outdated software, incorrect user management, weak passwords, or vulnerable plugins and themes. Strong, unique passwords for all accounts are your first line of defense. Only use plugins from reputable sources and keep them updated. Remove any unused WordPress plugins.
4. Backups are your safety net: Regular backups can save you if your site gets hacked or something goes wrong.
5. SSL is a must: An SSL certificate encrypts data between your site and visitors, protecting sensitive information.
Understanding these key points will help you grasp why each step in our security checklist is important. Remember, good security practices are about reducing risk – you can’t eliminate all threats, but you can make your site a much tougher target for hackers.
Keep in mind that this is a checklist so I’ll give you basic instructions and tips for each step. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive guide with step-by-step instructions and screenshots, then read: The Ultimate WordPress Security Guide (Step-By-Step Plan)
Now, are you ready to start securing your WordPress site? Let’s get to it!
Ultimate WordPress Security Checklist
1. Keep WordPress Core, Themes, and Plugins Updated
– Why: Outdated software is vulnerable to attacks
– How: Go to Dashboard » Updates, backup your site, then click “Update Now” for each item. Make sure you’re using the latest WordPress version
2. Install and Configure a Security Plugin
– Why: Adds multiple layers of protection to your site including a web application firewall, malware scanner, brute force protection, and limit login attempts
– How: Choose a reputable plugin like Sucuri, install, and configure its settings
See: 9+ Best WordPress Security Plugins to Shield Your Website
3. Schedule Regular Backups
– Why: Keeps a copy of your site for quick recovery if it’s compromised
– How: Use a backup plugin or your host’s backup service; make sure to store backups off-site
See our recommendations: 11 Best WordPress Backup Plugins to Keep Your Site Safe
4. Use Strong and Unique Passwords
– Why: Weak passwords are easy entry points for hackers
– How: Use a password manager to generate and store strong passwords
5. Change the Default Admin Username
– Why: Usernames like “admin” are a common target for hackers
– How: Make sure your username is unique and hard to guess
6. Implement two-factor authentication (2FA)
Use plugins like Google Authenticator or Two Factor Authentication – This adds an extra layer of security beyond just a password
7. Use a Secure Hosting Provider
– Why: Your host is the foundation of your site’s security
– How: Research and choose a host like Bluehost with strong security features like regular backups, malware scanning, and firewalls
8. Enable SSL/HTTPS
– Why: Encrypts data transfer between server and visitors
– How: Obtain an SSL certificate from your host or a provider like Let’s Encrypt, then install and configure it. You can also use a plugin like Really Simple SSL.
9. Disable File Editing in WordPress Dashboard
– Why: Prevents hackers from editing theme/plugin files if they gain access
– How: Plugins like Sucuri let you do this with just a click. Or you can add define(‘DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT’, true); to wp-config.php
10. Use the Latest PHP Version
– Why: Newer PHP versions have better security and performance
– How: In your hosting account, look for PHP updates or check with support on how to do this
11. Limit and Manage User Roles and Permissions
– Why: Reduces risk of internal breaches and limits potential damage from compromised accounts
– How: Audit existing roles such as subscriber author, editor, and admin. Give admin access only to trusted persons and remove inactive users
12. Implement User Activity Monitoring
– Why: Helps detect suspicious behavior and track changes
– How: Use a plugin like WP Security Audit Log, regularly review logs
13. Educate Users on Security Best Practices
– Why: Strengthens overall site security by preventing user-related vulnerabilities
– How: Provide training on password security, phishing awareness, and account management
14. Implement Content Restriction
– Why: Give users appropriate access to your content
– How: Use plugins like Restrict Content Pro to limit access based on user roles
15. Remove Unused Themes and Plugins
– Why: Reduces potential vulnerabilities and clutter
– How: Go to Appearance » Themes and Plugins » Installed Plugins, delete unused items
16. Implement CAPTCHA on Forms
– Why: Prevents spam submissions and brute force attacks
– How: Use plugins like WPForms to create forms with CAPTCHA protection
16. Keep Your Computer Secure
– Why: Your device can be an entry point to your site
– How: Use antivirus software, keep your OS and software updated, be cautious with public Wi-Fi
17. Keep WordPress Salts and Keys Updated
– Why: Strengthens authentication cookies and passwords
– How: Periodically update these in wp-config.php using WordPress.org’s secret-key service
18. Secure Your WordPress Login Page
Why: The login page is a primary target for attackers
How: Change the default login URL from /wp-admin and /wp-login.php to a custom URL – This makes it harder for bots to find your login page
19. Monitor Your Site Regularly
– Why: Early detection of issues or breaches
– How: The best way to do this is to set up a security plugin with a malware scanner
This comprehensive WordPress security checklist covers the essential steps to secure your WordPress website. Remember, security is an ongoing process, so regularly review and update your security measures.
Key takeaways:
1. Stay vigilant and keep everything updated
2. Use strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication
3. Choose a secure hosting provider
4. Implement a robust security plugin
5. Regularly backup your site
6. Manage user roles and permissions carefully
While this WordPress site security list might seem overwhelming at first, don’t feel pressured to implement everything at once. Start with the basics and gradually work your way through the more advanced measures. Every step you take improves your site’s security.
If you’re new to WordPress or feeling unsure about implementing these security measures, consider checking out our WordPress 101 course. It covers many of these topics in depth, with easy-to-follow video tutorials that can help you secure your site with confidence.
Get started with our free video tutorials, then unlock the rest with an All-Access Pass.
When you sign up, you’ll get access to our member-only forum where you can ask our WordPress experts questions and doubts you may have about your WordPress journey.
FAQs on WordPress Security
1. How often should I update my WordPress site?
Check for updates at least weekly, and apply them as soon as possible after backing up your site.
2. Is a free security plugin good enough, or do I need a premium one?
Free versions of reputable security plugins often provide solid basic protection. Premium versions offer more features and support, which can be worth it for business sites.
3. Can I implement these security measures on a site that’s already live?
Yes, most of these measures can be implemented on live sites. Just be sure to back up your site before making changes.
4. What should I do if my site gets hacked despite these measures?
First, don’t panic. Restore from a clean backup if possible, change all passwords, update everything, and consider professional help to clean and secure your site. If you’re using a security service like Sucuri, you can submit a malware cleanup request and their team will handle it for you.
5. Are shared hosting plans secure enough for WordPress?
While shared hosting can be secure, managed WordPress hosting often provides better security features. Choose a reputable provider either way like Bluehost that comes with a free SSL, free CDN (content delivery network), backups, security features, and more.
6. How can I tell if my site has been hacked?
Look for unexpected changes in your site’s appearance, unusual admin users, strange files, or a sudden drop in site speed. Security plugins can also help detect intrusions.
7. Is it necessary to hire a professional for WordPress security?
While many users can implement basic security measures themselves, businesses or high-traffic sites might benefit from professional security services.
8. Can using too many plugins compromise my site’s security?
Yes, having many plugins can increase your chances of cyber attacks. Only use necessary, well-maintained plugins from reputable sources.
9. How important is SSL for my WordPress site?
Very important. SSL encrypts data transfer, builds trust with visitors, and is a ranking factor for search engines.
10. Are there any free WordPress security plugins?
Yes, Sucuri offers a free WordPress security plugin.
11. What’s the easiest way to start improving my site’s security right now?
Start by updating WordPress core, themes, and plugins, then install a reputable security plugin and enable two-factor authentication.
Remember, securing your WordPress site isn’t just about protecting your data – it’s about preserving your hard work, maintaining your visitors’ trust, and ensuring your peace of mind. By following this checklist, you’re taking crucial steps to safeguard your online presence.
Stay safe, stay secure, and keep creating amazing things with WordPress!
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