WordPress is the world's most popular content management system - and that popularity makes it a favorite target for hackers. Statistics estimate that WordPress websites, small or large, face roughly 90,978 attacks per minute. That is why WordPress security matters more every year, whether you run a blog, a company site, or a WooCommerce store.
As a WordPress developer with 6+ years of experience securing client websites, here are the nine steps I apply to protect every site I build.
1. Keep WordPress Core, Plugins, and Themes Updated
Most successful attacks exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software. Update the WordPress core, your plugins, and your themes as soon as stable releases are available.
2. Use a Strong, Unique Username and Password
Use a strong, complex password and a username specific to the site - and never share them with anyone.
3. Buy Themes and Plugins Only from Trusted Sources
Nulled or pirated themes often ship with malware. Purchase and download only from trusted sources such as wordpress.org, ThemeForest, and CodeCanyon.
4. Install a Security Plugin
Use a dedicated security plugin such as Wordfence, Sucuri, or All In One WP Security to add firewall rules, malware scanning, and login protection.
5. Protect the WordPress Dashboard
Change the default login URL and limit login attempts to shut down brute-force attacks against wp-admin.
6. Update Your Hosting's PHP Version
Old PHP versions carry unpatched vulnerabilities (and slow your site down). Ask your host to run a current, supported PHP version.
7. Hide Version Information
Hide the WordPress version, active theme, plugins, and PHP version, and prevent public access to this information - attackers use it to pick their exploits.
8. Harden the Database
Use strong, complex database passwords and a unique table prefix instead of the default wp_.
9. Connect Your Site to a CDN
A CDN such as Cloudflare reduces exposure to attacks (including DDoS) and improves performance at the same time.
Need Help Securing Your WordPress Website?
I apply these hardening steps - and more - on every project. If you want your website audited and secured professionally, explore my WordPress services or contact me for a free consultation.
