If you manage client websites, run a side hustle, or freelance full-time, you already know WordPress is your go-to tool for building fast, flexible websites. But it’s also a popular target for hackers, bots, and brute-force attacks and WordPress websites experience roughly 90,000 attacks every MINUTE.
That’s why WordPress security doesn’t start with expensive tools and extra plugins…it starts with smart habits and well-coded themes.
Why WordPress Sites Are Easy for Hackers to Target
Over 40% of the internet is now built on WordPress. While that number is an amazing figure, it means that it’s some of the most-shared code in the world – and every hacker knows it.
The open-source nature of the most popular CMS makes your client websites an easy target. Tag on a dozen plugins with their own vulnerabilities and you’ve got a buffet of low-hanging fruit for bots and automated attacks.
The Hidden Dangers of “Easy” Security Fixes
Most freelancers rely on a variety of plugins to handle their website and their security. If you have one plugin for firewall, another for 2FA, and another one to limit logins you’re not alone. But you’re probably making things worse by creating more vulnerabilities:
- Bloated code introduces bugs and slowdowns
- Conflicts between plugins create gaps hackers can exploit
- Poorly maintained tools are an open door for attacks
Even worse, some “security” plugins collect data or run invasive background tasks that slow down your site—or your client’s.
12 Security Tips to Safeguard Your WordPress Website
Here’s what you can do right now to help protect your WordPress site from brute force attacks and common hacker threats:
Use a reputable host with malware scanning and backups
Choose a host with built-in firewalls, malware scanning, and daily backups. Quality hosting reduces risk before WordPress even loads.
Keep WordPress core, plugins, and themes updated
52% of WordPress breaches are due to outdated plugins, themes, and core site tools. Check for updates weekly to stay ahead.
Use strong passwords and enable 2FA
Use a password manager for unique, complex passwords and add 2FA (two-factor authentication) for an extra layer of protection, especially for admin users.
Limit user roles
Only give admin access when necessary. Regularly audit users to keep their permissions in check.
Create frequent backups
Backups are non-negotiable. Automate daily or 2-3 times a week and make sure they include both files and your database.
Disable XML-RPC if you don’t need it
XML-RPC is an easily-exploited-feature. Disable it via your host or a lightweight plugin to close an unnecessary security gap.
Set proper file permissions
Avoid 777 file permissions on your WordPress site. 777 permission allows everyone access to your files, including hackers and bots. Use 644 for files and 755 for folders instead.
Use a staging site
Use staging environments to test plugin and theme updates safely. Staging sites can prevent live-site crashes and client-side errors.
Log user activity
Activity logs track who logs in, what changes, and when. They’re great for spotting suspicious behavior and troubleshooting issues fast.
Change your login URL
43% of the internet runs on WordPress and those sites all start with /wp-login.php. Switch to a custom login path to drastically reduce automated brute force attacks.
Limit login attempts
Block repeated failed logins automatically. Many hosts support this natively, or use a lightweight firewall to handle it for you.
The team at WP knows that their tools have open-ended functionality that can leave users vulnerable and they’re open about the best ways sites built with WordPress can be secured.Â
Bonus Tip: Make Security Part of Your Pitch
Security isn’t a “one and done” task. In addition to a monthly check-in for vulnerabilities, add value and support to a quarterly security review to your client maintenance plan. Use this time to reset salt keys, update passwords, audit plugins, and review user access.
Don’t Wait for a Hack to Get Serious About Security
Klaxon Themes creates a secure starting point for WordPress websites, with developer-backed blocks and components that support accessibility, speed, and SEO, all without sacrificing security.
If you want to spend less time worrying about your security and more time building beautiful sites that perform and convert, Klaxon has your back.
Browse the Klaxon Cloud Library and start building smarter today.