change the WordPress login page URL for security purposes

Changing the WordPress login page URL is an effective way to enhance your website’s security by reducing the risk of brute-force attacks. Below are the methods to achieve this:

1. Using a Plugin (Recommended for Beginners)

The easiest and safest way to change the WordPress login URL is by using a plugin. Here’s how:

Steps with WPS Hide Login Plugin:

1. Install and Activate:

   • Log in to your WordPress dashboard.

   • Navigate to Plugins > Add New and search for “WPS Hide Login.”

   • Install and activate the plugin.

2. Configure the New Login URL:

   • Go to Settings > WPS Hide Login.

   • Enter your desired custom login URL in the “Login URL” field (e.g., example.com/my-login).

   • Optionally, set a “Redirection URL” for users attempting to access the default login page (wp-login.php or /wp-admin).

3. Save Changes:

   • Click “Save Changes.”

   • Use the new custom login URL to access your site in the future.

2. Using Security Plugins

Some comprehensive security plugins also allow you to change the login page URL as part of their features:

• iThemes Security:

  • Go to Advanced Settings > Hide Backend.

  • Enter a custom login slug (e.g., my-custom-login) and save changes. REF.

• All In One WP Security & Firewall:

  • Navigate to the plugin settings and enable the “Rename Login Page” option.

  • Set your desired custom login URL.

3. Manual Methods (For Advanced Users)

If you prefer not to use plugins, you can manually change the login URL, though this requires technical expertise.

Option 1: Modify wp-login.php

1. Create a backup of your wp-login.php file.

2. Rename wp-login.php to a unique name (e.g., my-secret-login.php).

3. Update all instances of wp-login.php in your WordPress files with the new name.

4. Save changes and test your new login URL.

Option 2: Use .htaccess

1. Backup your .htaccess file.

2. Add a redirect rule in .htaccess:

   text

   RewriteRule ^custom-login$ https://www.example.com/wp-login.php [NC,L]


   Replace custom-login with your desired path. REF.

Tips for Changing Your Login URL Safely

• Always back up your site before making changes.

• Bookmark or securely save your new login URL to avoid lockout.

• Test thoroughly after implementation to ensure functionality.

By using these methods, you can effectively hide your WordPress login page from attackers and improve overall site security.