It’s estimated that WordPress is the most used Content Management System globally, running various sites in different industries. Still, this very fact of popularity makes it the first target for every hacker and cyber-terrorist. If you own a website on WordPress, then you must take some steps so that it stays safe. The ultimate goals for protection from such hacks are the protection of data, the functionality of the site, and the safety of users.
In this article, we’ll walk you through six easy steps to secure an existing WordPress site, with a focus on implementing effective WordPress security measures.
Step 1: Keep Your WordPress Site Updated
Probably one of the easiest and most effective ways your WordPress site can be kept secure is by keeping everything up to date: WordPress core, themes, and plugins. Many times developers release updates that patch bugs, security vulnerabilities, and even functionalities.
Why Updating is Crucial
- Security Patches: Updates very often include patches for security vulnerabilities that have been discovered. Running outdated software leaves your site open to attack.
- New Features: Updates also bring new features, enhancing the performance and security of your site.
- Compatibility: Keeping your WordPress core, themes, and plugins updated reduces the chances of compatibility issues that can create security gaps.
How to Update Your Site
- Automatic Updates: You can enable WordPress and plugin automatic updates, reducing the possibility of missing an important update.
- Manual Updates: When it comes to automatic updates not supported by the theme or plugin, then it’s your work to check WordPress dashboard after a certain interval for such updates and update them ASAP.
Step 2: Strengthen Your Login Credentials
Poor and un-optimized login credentials are an entry point for many hackers. Strengthening your login credentials is a very basic aspect of WordPress security.
Best Practices for Strong Credentials
- Use Strong Passwords: It’s best to avoid weak passwords, like “password123” or “admin”. Instead, you should use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, with numbers and special characters as well.
- Change Default Username: Most WordPress sites use “admin” by default, which actually gives an attacker the first half of their brute force attack. Change it to something different.
- Enable 2FA: Two-factor authentication means a second layer of verification is needed, normally via a code being sent to the phone, before access to the admin area is allowed.
How to Implement These Changes
- Password Managers: Use a password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords for all your accounts.
- 2FA Plugins: Install a plugin like Google Authenticator or Wordfence that supports Two-Factor Authentication. This significantly reduces the likelihood of unauthorised access.
Step 3: Install a WordPress Security Plugin
This Security plugin will help you protect against many various ways that your website could be compromised. The plugins are scanned for malware and protected by their firewall, but their login attempts are limited.
What to Look for in a Security Plugin
- Comprehensive Protection: A good security plugin should provide a wide range of features, including malware detection, firewall protection, and brute force attack prevention.
- Regular Updates: Choose a plugin that is regularly updated to address new security threats.
- User-Friendly Interface: The plugin should be easy to use, even for those who are not tech-savvy.
Recommended Security Plugins
- Wordfence: Offers firewall protection, malware scanning, and login security.
- Sucuri Security: Provides monitoring, malware detection, and cleanup services.
- iThemes Security: Offers over 30 ways to secure your site, including Two-Factor Authentication and database backups.
Step 4: Implement Secure Hosting and Backups
Your hosting environment plays a crucial role in the overall security of your WordPress site. Choosing a secure hosting provider and setting up regular backups are critical steps in protecting your site.
Choosing a Secure Hosting Provider
- Reputation: Choose a hosting provider with a strong reputation for security. Look for features like SSL certificates, DDoS protection, and automated backups.
- WordPress-Specific Hosting: Consider using WordPress-specific hosting, which is optimised for WordPress security and performance.
- Support: Ensure that the hosting provider offers 24/7 support to assist with any security issues that may arise.
Setting Up Regular Backups
- Automated Backups: Use a backup plugin or your hosting provider’s backup services to schedule regular backups of your WordPress site. This ensures that you can quickly restore your site if it’s compromised.
- Off-Site Backups: Store your backups in a secure off-site location, such as cloud storage, to protect them from local server issues.
Step 5: Secure Your WordPress Admin Area
The WordPress admin area is the control center of your site, making it a prime target for attackers. Securing this area is crucial for maintaining overall site security.
Tips for Securing the Admin Area
- Change the Login URL: By default, the WordPress login page is accessible via “/wp-admin” or “/wp-login.php.” Changing this URL to something unique makes it harder for attackers to find your login page.
- Limit Login Attempts: Brute force attacks rely on repeatedly guessing login credentials. Limiting the number of login attempts can block these attacks. Security plugins often offer this feature.
- IP Whitelisting: Restrict access to the admin area by whitelisting specific IP addresses. Only users with these IP addresses will be able to access the WordPress dashboard.
How to Implement These Changes
- Login URL Change: Use a plugin like WPS Hide Login to change your login URL.
- Limit Login Attempts: Most security plugins, including Wordfence and Sucuri, offer features to limit login attempts.
- IP Whitelisting: This can be done through your hosting provider’s control panel or by using a security plugin.
Step 6: Regularly Monitor and Audit Your Site
Continuous monitoring and auditing of your WordPress site are essential for detecting and addressing potential security threats before they cause significant damage.
What to Monitor
- File Integrity: Regularly check for changes in your WordPress files, which could indicate a security breach.
- User Activity: Monitor user activity, especially in the admin area, to detect any unauthorised changes or suspicious behavior.
- Traffic and Performance: Unusual spikes in traffic or slow site performance can indicate a potential attack, such as a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack.
How to Conduct Regular Audits
- Security Plugins: Many security plugins offer monitoring and auditing features. For example, Wordfence provides real-time traffic monitoring, while Sucuri offers security auditing.
- Manual Audits: Periodically review your site manually to check for any suspicious activity. This includes reviewing server logs, checking file permissions, and verifying that all software is up-to-date.
Conclusion
Securing an existing WordPress site doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these six easy steps—keeping your site updated, strengthening login credentials, installing a security plugin, implementing secure hosting and backups, securing the admin area, and regularly monitoring your site—you can significantly enhance your WordPress security. Remember, the key to maintaining a secure site is vigilance and regular updates.
By proactively addressing potential vulnerabilities, you can protect your site from threats, maintain your site’s functionality, and ensure a safe experience for your users. For more detailed guides and tools to enhance your WordPress security, explore resources available at WordPress-specific security sites and plugins, including WordPress Security plugins. With these measures in place, you can confidently manage your WordPress site, knowing it’s well-protected.