To strengthen WordPress site security, update core files, use strong passwords, enable 2FA, install security plugins, back up regularly, set correct file permissions, and keep the server updated.
Introduction:
Did you realize that as of 2023, WordPress is the platform behind 45.8% of all websites online, an increase from 43.2% in 2022, as reported by W3Techs? This means that over two in every five websites are powered by WordPress.
Despite its widespread use as a content management system (CMS), WordPress is not impervious to security risks, like any other CMS. Therefore, it is essential to bolster the security of your WordPress site as a fundamental measure to safeguard and shield it against potential online threats.
Here are 7 tips to help strengthen your WordPress site:
1. Keep your WordPress core, themes, and plugins up to date.
Ensuring that your WordPress core, themes, and plugins are kept up to date is paramount in safeguarding your WordPress site. Outdated software remains a common vulnerability that can be exploited by malicious actors, making regular updates a necessity.
2. Use strong, unique passwords.
Your initial defense against hackers revolves around employing robust, distinct passwords for all your WordPress accounts. Refrain from using simple or commonly used passwords and contemplate the use of a password manager to generate and securely store unique passwords for each account.
3. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
Two-factor authentication (2FA) offers an additional layer of protection for your WordPress site. It necessitates a secondary form of verification, like a code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password. This significantly heightens the challenge for potential intruders, even if they possess your password.
4. Use a security plugin to monitor your site and protect against common attacks.
Utilizing a security plugin designed for WordPress can help monitor your site for potential threats and thwart common attacks, such as brute-force login attempts and SQL injections. Wordfence, Sucuri, and iThemes Security are among the popular choices.
5. Regularly back up your WordPress site.
Regularly backing up your WordPress site is pivotal. Having recent backups readily available simplifies the recovery process in case of a breach or compromise. Ensure these backups are stored securely.
6. Set the correct file permissions.
Correctly configuring file permissions is vital for controlling access to and modification of files on your website’s server. For WordPress core files, consider employing the recommended permissions of 644 for files and 755 for directories. These settings allow the file owner to read and write, while group and public users can only read. When it comes to the wp-config.php file, restricting access to just the file owner is critical, with recommended permissions set at 600, given its sensitive content.
7. Keep the server up to date.
Maintaining the server’s up to date is equally crucial. The server housing your WordPress website must have its operating system and software regularly updated. Outdated software remains a common entry point for hackers and malware, so consistent updates and patches for the server’s operating system, web server software, database software, and other components are imperative.
By adhering to these recommendations, you can reinforce the security of your WordPress site against potential cyber threats. Always remember that security is an ongoing endeavor, necessitating regular reviews and updates to keep your site well-protected.
Lead Developer
Yohan Dalpatadu
