advanced techniques can I use to harden my WordPress site

What advanced techniques can I use to harden my WordPress site

To harden your WordPress site using advanced techniques, consider the following methods:

1. Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF)

• Purpose: A WAF acts as a barrier between your site and the internet, filtering out malicious traffic before it reaches your server.

• Tools: Use plugins like Wordfence or Sucuri to implement a WAF. These tools can also provide additional security features like malware scanning and IP blocking. REF.

2. Secure File and Directory Permissions

• Purpose: Properly set permissions to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive files.

• Steps:

  • Files: 644

  • Directories: 755

  • wp-config.php: 440 or 400 for maximum security. REF.

3. Disable PHP Execution in Untrusted Folders

• Purpose: Prevent hackers from executing malicious PHP scripts in directories like /wp-content/uploads/.

• Steps:

  • Access your site via FTP or cPanel.

  • Add the following .htaccess rule in directories where PHP execution is not needed:

    text

    <Files *.php>
deny from all
</Files>


4. Use a Security Plugin for Hardening

• Purpose: Streamline security hardening with plugins like MalCare, Shield Security PRO, or Wordfence.

• Features: These plugins offer features like malware scanning, firewall protection, and automatic updates.

5. Implement Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

• Purpose: Enhance login security by requiring a second form of verification.

• Tools: Use plugins like WP 2FA or Google Authenticator to enable 2FA for all users.

6. Regularly Update and Maintain WordPress Core, Themes, and Plugins

• Purpose: Ensure you have the latest security patches to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.

• Steps: Regularly check for updates in your WordPress dashboard and apply them promptly. REF.

7. Secure the Hosting Environment

• Purpose: Ensure your hosting provider offers secure protocols like HTTPS and has robust security measures in place.

• Steps: Check if your site uses HTTPS and consider using a managed hosting service with built-in security features.

8. Limit Login Attempts

• Purpose: Prevent brute-force attacks by limiting the number of login attempts.

• Tools: Use plugins like Limit Login Attempts Reloaded to restrict failed login attempts.

9. Monitor Site Activity

• Purpose: Keep track of changes and suspicious activity on your site.

• Tools: Use plugins like WP Activity Log or Sucuri Security to monitor site activity and receive alerts for potential threats.

10. Regular Backups

• Purpose: Ensure you can recover your site quickly in case of an attack or data loss.

• Tools: Use plugins like UpdraftPlus to schedule regular backups of your database and files.

By implementing these advanced techniques, you can significantly enhance the security of your WordPress site and protect it against various threats.