Here are some statistics that may explain the popularity of WordPress. The platform plays host to over 39.5% of websites.
It also commands a 60.8% CMS market share. There is a 500 plus increase in WordPress sites every single day. With so many functionalities, many web designers use it as the preferred option.
You, for example, have access to over 55000 plugins, allowing you to give your audiences a better user experience.
Unfortunately, its popularity has made it a target for hackers. It pays to implement the necessary measures to keep your site safe. Our article will share with you 8 simple tricks to keep your WordPress website safe.
1. It Starts with Finding the Right Hosting Company
Many factors go into deciding which web hosting company to sign up to. You know that the decision you make will determine the functioning of the website.
You will get a look at things like bandwidth, scalability, and server locations. Another critical component you must pay attention to is the type of security the web hosting company has.
Some companies will provide malware scans every single day. The customer care teams are always available to check that everything is working as it should. Avoid free or cheap web hosting providers. Think of the money you spend on a good provider as an investment.
2. Defend Your WordPress Site with a Strong Password
How much attention do you give to the passwords you use? Most people go for the easiest and simplest to remember.
First name, birthdays, admin, and 1234 combinations are just some of them. Another bad practice is to use the same password for everything that needs one. Once someone cracks it, they have access to all your information.
A good idea is to have a strong password for the login page and admin pages. If hackers use brute force to get into the login page, they will find it difficult to access the others because you have different passwords.
3. Set Limits on Logins and Users
Limit the number of attempts someone can make to login. You will find this practice common in online banking. Some will only allow you a maximum of three attempts before you get a temporary block. WordPress has the relevant plugins you can use for this.
If you have more than one person running the WordPress site, assign privileges depending on roles.
Do not give free access to every area. It allows for better monitoring and control over what goes on. If one of the team members leave, change the details so that they no longer have access to your site.
4. Install Additional Layers of Security with Proxy and Firewall Plugins
The right web hosting company will have security measures in place. However, it does not hurt to have extra security. Installing an SSL proxy, for example, will give you so many benefits. You get data encryption so that hackers do not find easy access.
Proxies will also sieve content coming in and out of your site. It will block or remove harmful content, thus keeping you safe. By hiding your IP address, you can browse the internet anonymously.
Proxies like Smart Proxy by Crawlbase will also allow you to bypass content that may not be available within your geographic location. You should also install the WordPress firewall plugin for extra monitoring of the site.
5. Hide the Sensitive Files
If the WP-configuration files and wp-admin files fall into the wrong hands, you can say goodbye to your WordPress site. Secure them by hiding them in a location only you are aware of.
Remove them from the root folder and block any access to them. You also have the option of pre-selecting IP addresses that can get access to your admin page.
6. Take Advantage of Updates and File Backups
WordPress is constantly rolling out updates. You may think it is bothersome to run them but think about the benefits. Updates provide the latest security amendments and patches for areas of vulnerabilities.
You significantly reduce the chances of hackers finding access to your site. Make sure you run the updates for themes, plugins, and PHP as well.
It is important that you backup your database and files before running the updates. Some may interfere with the functionality, and you do not want to lose your data.
Another advantage of backups is if hackers manage to get in, you can take the necessary corrective measures. Once you eliminate the risk, you can restore your website to what it was originally.
7. Be Careful About Where You Get Your Themes or Plugins
WordPress has a rich library for themes and plugins. Some of the premium options may, however, come at a price that you may consider expensive.
You may therefore look for third-party options in the marketplaces. Some come as cracked or nulled themes, which are versions of the original.
It is important to note; you could be exposing yourself to very high-risk levels. Some contain malicious code and provide a way for hackers to get in. You are better off spending the money to buy the original themes than the cost you may incur by using unsafe options.
8. Delete Obsolete Plugins or Themes
Do you find that you have plugins or themes you have not used for a long time? If yes, it is time to do some cleaning.
Some may contain vulnerabilities that can compromise the security of your WordPress site. The files may also be eating up storage space, which could interfere with the site’s performance.
Final Thoughts
Securing your WordPress website is very important. We have looked at 8 ways you can secure your site. Choose the right web host provider but, also take the time to install your own security measures.
SSL proxies, for example, are fantastic options. You get data encryption and sieving of traffic to remove any harmful content.Take advantage of the updates to ensure you get the benefit of the latest security updates. Do not forget to back up your files routinely.
If hackers get excess, you could lose all your data. It helps to have the original files in a safe, separate location in case you need them.