Introduction
WordPress is the world’s most popular content management system powering millions of websites. Although it offers unparalleled flexibility and ease of use, it also presents a tempting target for hackers. Implementing robust security measures is very important to safeguard your WordPress site. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top 15 ways to fortify your WordPress site against potential threats.
1. WordPress and Plugins Updates
Regular Updates:
Updates the WordPress core, themes, and plugins to make them not outdated. Updates are usually security patches that fix vulnerabilities.
Security Updates First:
Install security updates immediately when they become available.
2. Strong, Different Passwords
Complex Passwords:
Make strong, different passwords for your WordPress admin account and the database.
Secure Password Manager:
Use a professional password manager to generate complex passwords and keep them somewhere safe.
3. Limit Login Attempts
Installation of the plugin:
This involves installing a login attempts limitation plugin that prevents brute force attacks.
Configuration of the plugin:
The plugin needs to be configured to block particular IP addresses after a number of incorrect login attempts.
4. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Adding an Extra Layer:
Activate 2FA on your website to add another layer of security to the login process.
Installation of 2FA Plugin:
An easy way to have 2FA in place would be to install a 2FA plugin.
5. Secure Your Hosting Environment
Reliable Hosting Provider:
Choose a reliable hosting provider with proper security measures.
Backup Regularly:
Have regular backups to protect your website data.
6. Security Plugin
Use a security plugin to monitor for threats on your website. Popular choices are Wordfence, iThemes Security, or Sucuri.
7. Limit File Upload Permissions
File Uploads:
Set permissions strictly so that the server limits uploading files to only upload to specific directories.
Block Malicious Uploads:
This prevents unauthorized uploads of files which can compromise your website.
8. Web Application Firewall
WAF Advanced Security:
A WAF can filter malicious traffic and protect your site against attacks.
WAF Integration:
One can use a WAF service or plugin that has integration with a WAF.
9. Secure Your wp-config.php File
File Permissions:
Change file permissions in order to avoid unauthorized access.
Hidden File:
Move the wp-config.php file out of public directories.
10. Use HTTPS
Encrypted Connection:
Encrypt the communication between your website and the users’ browsers by using HTTPS. Get and install an SSL certificate to secure your website.
11. Monitor Activity on Your Website
Security Logs:
Monitor the security logs of your website to catch suspicious activity. Set up alert systems for critical security events.
12. Know Security Threats
Security News:
Monitor newly identified WordPress security threats as well as vulnerabilities.
WordPress Forums:
Participate in WordPress forums, through which most will learn a lot and be assisted by other members and security gurus, too.
13. Avoid Weak or Default Themes as well as Plugins
Official Sources:
Get good themes and plugins from known sources to minimize the risks of vulnerabilities.
Update frequently:
Update themes and plugins
14. Safe with User Permissions
Limit Access:
Grant a sufficient role and permissions on which basis you limit some portion of your website with the least user access.
User Role Management:
Keep reconfiguring the permission that is given in a timely manner and at regular intervals to prevent hacking attacks and other such situations, to avoid getting completely washed off.
15. Back Up Your Website Regularly
Protect Your Website with Regular Backup
The whole of the following top 15 security tips help enhance the security posture of your WordPress site. Security is an ongoing process, therefore keep vigilant and change your security measures accordingly.
