WordPress Security Basics

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August 17, 2021

A Short Guide To WordPress Security Basics In 2021

In 2021, WordPress security is a hot topic.

Over 35% of the web is now hosted on WordPress. Its accessibility makes it a great choice for a website host, but can also leave it slightly more vulnerable to attack.

It’s no surprise, therefore, that there is an extensive amount of information out there on WordPress security issues. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, this quick guide is for you.

Outlining WordPress security basics for 2021, we’re going to give you 5 easy steps to follow. Of course, 100% site security is never possible, but we’ll get you as close as we can!

WordPress Security Basics

Is WordPress Secure?

Before we begin, it’s important to note that WordPress is as secure as any other website platform. It all depends on how you manage security issues.

When it comes to WordPress security basics, general security basics still apply. Creating complex passwords and keeping on top of your computer’s security is an important place to start.

WordPress Security Checklist For 2021

#1 Stay on top of updates

A regularly updated WordPress site is a secure WordPress site.

Hackers will often target older versions of WordPress sites once new versions are up, so it’s important to stay one step ahead.

When WordPress updates, you’ll be notified in the Dashboard- Updates menu. To enable automatic core and plugin updates, simply open wp-config.php and add the below line above “That’s it! Stop editing.”

define( ‘AUTOMATIC_UPDATER_DISABLED’, false );

#2 Don’t install too many plug-ins

As well as keeping your plugins updated, it’s worth limiting the number of third party plug-ins you install. Plug-ins and themes that are obsolete or include bugs can also cause WordPress security issues.

If you don’t have a WordPress Maintenance team to analyse this for you, you can assess your plug-ins using the following method:

  • Check install base. Does the plugin have a large number of installs or are you unsure of its quality? Are there many reviews?
  • Check regularity of updates. Are developers putting out frequent updates and security patches?
  • Check the vendor terms of service and privacy policy. Both of these things are important and indicative of a quality plugin.

#3 Manage administrative access

Put simply, more people have access to your account, the weaker it is.

Keep administrative access to a minimum and give out details only on a need to have basis.

It’s also important to remove the default admin account from your WordPress site as this is a key source of WordPress security issues.

To remove it, add another administrator email and then remove the admin account when signed in on the new one. You can remove it on the administrator dashboard by hovering over the name.

#4 Make frequent backups

This wouldn’t be an article on WordPress security basics without emphasis of the importance of backups.

You should backup everything from your themes and plugins to your database; ideally, you should do this outside of your site.

To enable automatic backup, have a look at WordPress’ plugin directory and choose a relevant plugin.

#5 Advanced security tips

  • Rename default login Page
  • Change database table prefix
  • Restrict bad login attempts
  • Disable file editing via the dashboard
  • Restrict access to wp_config.php file
  • Hide WordPress version
  • Hide wp-config.php and .htaccess
  • Protect WordPress with a Web Application Firewall (WAF
  • Limit XML-RPC functionality

WordPress Security Basics:

We hope you have found this guide helpful. If you have any queries, please reach out to our team at [

The real key to a secure WordPress site is a hosting and maintenance team who dedicate their time to ensuring your site is safe.

To find out more about our WordPress hosting and maintenance services, visit our plans page or get in touch.

Jason
Jason
In 1999 I created my very first website, it all went from there. Founder of WP Manager (wpmanager.co.uk). WordPress Developer with a passion for technology and travel.

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