How to secure a WordPress website

WordPress is a widely-used open-source content management system (CMS) that simplifies website creation. With its diverse functionalities, users can easily build blogs, personal sites, business pages, and eCommerce platforms.

Due to its plugin-based flexibility, WordPress powers millions of websites, but this also opens them up to potential cyber-attacks. Fortunately, there are several ways to enhance the security of your WordPress site.

1. Use a Valid SSL Certificate

SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encrypts the data exchanged between your website and its visitors, protecting sensitive information. Installing an SSL certificate is essential to ensure secure communication on your site. You can easily purchase an SSL certificate to get started.

2. Change Your Default Login URL

By default, WordPress uses easy-to-guess URLs for admin and login access, such as yourdomain.com/wp-admin and yourdomain.com/wp-login. Changing these to custom URLs helps protect against brute-force attacks. Plugins like “WPS Hide Login” can assist in making this change easily.

3. Use Strong Usernames, Passwords, and ReCAPTCHA

The default “admin” username is a major security vulnerability. Change it to something unique and difficult for attackers to guess. Additionally, create strong passwords with at least eight characters, a capital letter, and a special symbol. Implementing Google reCAPTCHA or hCaptcha adds an extra layer of defense against automated login attempts.

4. Install a Security Plugin

WordPress security plugins help block attacks before they reach your server. Popular options include Wordfence, Jetpack, All in One WP Security, and Cerber. Installing at least one plugin will bolster your site’s defenses.

5. Keep Themes and Plugins Updated

Outdated themes and plugins are prime targets for hackers. Always ensure your themes and plugins are up to date to benefit from security patches and fixes. Regular updates help maintain your website’s security integrity.

6. Avoid Nulled or Poorly Coded Plugins

Never use nulled (pirated) plugins or themes, as they may contain harmful code that can compromise your site. Always source themes and plugins from trusted developers or directly from the official WordPress repository.