WordPress Security Best Practices

To secure your WordPress site effectively, it is essential to implement a combination of best practices, tools, and proactive measures. Below are detailed WordPress security best practices:

1. 

  • Regularly update the WordPress core, themes, and plugins to patch vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit. Ref.

  • Delete unused or inactive plugins and themes to minimize security risks. REF.

2. 

  • Create strong passwords with at least 10 characters, including uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special symbols. REF.

  • Avoid using common usernames like “admin” and create unique administrator usernames. REF.

3. 

  • Add an extra layer of login security by enabling 2FA using plugins like WP 2FA. REF.

  • This requires users to verify their identity with a second factor, such as a mobile authentication code.

4. 

  • Restrict the number of failed login attempts to prevent brute-force attacks. Use plugins like Limit Login Attempts Reloaded for this purpose.REF.

5. 

  • Move the wp-config.php file to a non-default location and restrict access using .htaccess rules. REF.

  • Regularly update WordPress salt keys in the wp-config.php file to enhance password encryption. REF.

6. 

  • Use application-level firewalls (via plugins like Sucuri or Wordfence) or server-level firewalls provided by hosting services to block malicious traffic. REF.

7. 

  • Prevent unauthorized changes by disabling file editing in the WordPress dashboard. Add the following line to wp-config.php:

    php
    define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);

8. 

  • Schedule regular backups of your database and files using plugins like UpdraftPlus or through your hosting provider. REF.

  • Store backups securely offsite for quick recovery in case of an attack.

9. 

  • Install an SSL certificate to encrypt data transfer between your site and users. Update your site URLs from HTTP to HTTPS in WordPress settings.

10. 

  • Change the default login page URL (/wp-login.php) using plugins like WPS Hide Login to reduce automated attacks targeting common URLs.

11. 

  • Prevent execution of PHP files in directories like /wp-content/uploads/ by adding the following .htaccess rule:

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

12. 

  • Use plugins to automatically log out inactive users to prevent session hijacking5.

13. 

  • Restrict file permissions on your server:

    • Files: 644

    • Directories: 755

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

14. 

  • Install plugins like Sucuri Security or WP Activity Log to track changes, failed login attempts, and suspicious activity on your site.

By following these practices, you can significantly reduce vulnerabilities and protect your WordPress site from potential threats.