Ensuring the security of WordPress websites is one of the main concerns for administrators, and it is not something that can be easily ignored. Due to WordPress’s popularity among website-building platforms, it constantly faces the risk of hacking and intrusion. The widespread use of WordPress on many websites has led to increased security issues. Since security is a relative concept and no system can be said to be completely secure, it is necessary to utilize all possible measures to improve security in WordPress.
In this article from Asarad Educational Magazine, we aim to provide solutions for increasing the security of WordPress websites so you can implement these solutions to secure your site. So, stay with us.
Key Tips for Enhancing the Security of WordPress Websites:
1. Update WordPress Regularly
Regular updates are crucial for securing WordPress websites. WordPress, an open-source content management system, receives frequent updates. While WordPress handles minor updates automatically, users must manually initiate major updates from the dashboard.
2. Create Strong Passwords
Strong passwords are essential for preventing unauthorized access. Unique passwords should be used not only for the WordPress admin section but also for database accounts, hosting accounts, and email addresses.
3. Secure the WordPress Configuration File
The WordPress configuration file contains vital database information, making its security critical. Enhance the security of this file to limit hacker access.
4. Secure the .htaccess File
The .htaccess file is used for configuring directories and files on the Apache web server, especially in systems written in HTML and PHP and hosted on Linux servers. This file instructs the web server on how to display different types of information and handle various HTTP requests, thus enhancing the security of WordPress websites.
5. Change the Admin Username
Using “admin” as the username in WordPress makes the website highly vulnerable. Hackers can easily guess this username and then focus on cracking the password. For better security, avoid using “admin” as the username.
6. Change Table Prefixes
During WordPress installation, change the default table prefix from “_wp” to something unique. This helps in hiding the paths of database tables and prevents potential attacks.
7. Use SSL
SSL (Secure Socket Layer) secures the HTTP protocol, ensuring safe data transmission. It allows websites to securely exchange information between the server and the browser, protecting the information from potential attacks.
8. Disable Directory Listings
Hackers might access files through directories, creating paths for infiltrating the website and stealing user information. To enhance site security, disable directory listings.
9. Add Two-Factor Authentication
Two-factor authentication is an excellent solution for preventing brute force attacks. Even if someone obtains your username and password, they cannot access the admin section of your site without the second authentication factor, thus protecting your site from brute force attacks.
10. Hide Important System Files
Important files like wp-config.php and .htaccess store crucial information about the site’s structure and configuration. It is vital to ensure hackers cannot access these files. To enhance the security of the wp-config.php file, add the following code to the .htaccess file:
<Files wp-config.php>
order allow,deny
deny from all
</Files>
11. Update Themes and Plugins
Regularly updating your website’s themes and plugins is essential. Developers frequently release updates to fix security vulnerabilities or minor bugs. Keeping everything updated ensures your website is secure.
12. Disable File Editing
Hackers who gain access to the WordPress dashboard may make changes to your theme files. To prevent this, disable the theme editor by adding the following code to your wp-config.php file:
define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);
By implementing these tips and measures, you can significantly enhance the security of your WordPress website and protect it from potential threats.
