WordPress is a popular Content Management System (CMS) using which you can create websites. It is the most widely used platform that meets the needs of every website creator.

However, because of the popularity of WordPress, it is prone to hackers frequently. The hackers not only target corporate websites for sensitive data, but they also target personal blogs and small businesses online.  

The platform is one of the safest among CMS. Nevertheless, it still has its vulnerabilities and you need to take action to secure your site. Here are a few tips and ways to keep your WordPress site secure. 

1. Keep your site updated regularly

WordPress regularly updates with new versions. Usually, the purpose behind updates is to fix bugs, security, and technical issues. Therefore, the update is made to make the platforms safe and secure. It also protects your site from cyber attacks.

Make sure you keep your site updated regularly. Whenever WordPress releases a new updated version, it notifies you with the announcement at the top of the dashboard page. You can simply click where it’s written “Update now” and “Update to a newer version”. It only takes a few clicks. 

2. Secure login procedures

One of the ways to keep your WordPress site secure is through securing the login procedures. Easy-to-guess usernames and weak passwords are at high risk of brute-force attacks. Therefore, try to come up with unique and complex usernames and passwords. 

Similarly, you can also limit the login attempts. It prevents hackers from discovering your logins and credentials. Additionally, if possible, try to change your password every two or three months. If you cannot come up with strong passwords, you can use password generation tools. 

Looking to master WordPress? Check out our tips for WordPress that every webmaster should know!

3. Secure web hosting

It is always recommended that you choose a secure host for your site. Secure web hosting protects your site from viruses, malware, and hacking attacks. But there are two types of hosting plans you can select from, shared hosting and managed hosting. Which one is better then? 

The shared hosting is an economical plan but multiple websites use a single server. Meanwhile, in managed hosting the server is not shared and gives its user flexible choices and control over the server. 

Likewise, there are many host providers available for WordPress. Whichever you choose, security should be the first concern. It should protect your site’s privacy and sensitive information. 

4. Integrate SSL Certificate

Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) certificate is a digital certificate from a recognized authority. It helps to safeguard sensitive information and protect it from hackers’ attacks. It encrypts information within a website and creates a secure connection. 

The leak of personal information is a huge concern for any website. SSL certificate not only helps in security but helps in Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and to earn customer trust. 

You can find different types of SSL certificates with different categories of validation levels. Based on the type of your website and budget choose your pick. 

5. Choose a secure theme

There are thousands of WordPress themes, free and premium. All themes strive to make your website look attractive and interactive. However, while choosing themes, you should also check if it is secure or not. So what is a secure theme? 

The free themes may have limited features but it does not mean that the premium themes are always the best choice. Therefore, while choosing themes, always go for ones developed by a reputed company like EDivi, Ocean WP, Themeforest, etc.  

A secure theme is compatible with the WordPress version, meets its security standards, and constantly updates to fix bugs and other issues. Also, check if there have been any prior security issues.

6. Install security plugins

Installing security plugins is also one of the ways to keep your WordPress site secure. Plugins are add-ons that extend features and functionality in WordPress. There are some great security plugins that you can install to strengthen your site’s security. 

Similarly, you can also install more than one plugin to add an extra layer of security. From securing your login to scanning for malware and viruses, plugins are a great way to keep your WordPress site safe. Always go for plugins of reputed and legitimate developers. 

7. Regularly backup your site

Regularly backing your website is another way to keep your WordPress site secure. Not only for security reasons, regular backup protects your site from accidental loss or unexpected errors. 

Sometimes your site can be infected by viruses or malware. If you have a backup then it can be restored easily and get your website back to running. If you cannot do it daily, you should at least frequently do the backups.  You can use either plugins or choose web hosting that automatically provides automatic backup services.  

8. Disable xmlrpc.php file

XML-RPC was created in the early days of WordPress. It allows you to connect to your website remotely and also enables data transmission. Similarly, it also aids in communication with other systems. However, what was created for WordPress’s advantage has become a big security threat. 

The xmlrpc.php file has been used for brute force attacks on websites. Using strong passwords and plugins can help but it is better to disable the file for best protection. You can disable the xmlrpc.php file using either plugin or you can do it manually. 

9. Use the latest PHP version

PHP frequently updates to enhance features and any performance issues. The latest PHP version is compatible with the updated version of WordPress, plugins, and themes. The new version not only gives access to new features but also helps to strengthen security.

The outdated PHP version can have performance issues and is prone to cyber-attacks. Therefore, always use the latest PHP version to keep your WordPress site secure. 

Final Words

Just like WordPress and plugins keep updating, hackers and cybercriminals also keep advancing. They find and learn ways to get past the security. Lucky for us, the developers and security experts constantly come up with ways to prevent hacking and other issues. 

It is always best that you take your safety measures seriously. So these are some ways to keep your WordPress site secure. Even if your site is targeted with these tips, you can mitigate the risk.