WordPress powers over 40% of all websites, which makes it a prime target for hackers. The good news? You can dramatically reduce the risk of being hacked by following a few practical security steps.
Step 1: Keep Everything Updated
WordPress itself, along with themes and plugins, needs regular updates. Outdated versions are the easiest entry points for hackers. Enable automatic updates if possible.
Step 2: Use Strong Passwords and 2FA
Weak passwords are a hacker’s dream. Always use strong, unique passwords for your admin account, and enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for extra protection.
Step 3: Limit Login Attempts
Install a plugin like Limit Login Attempts Reloaded. This locks out users (or bots) after several failed attempts, making brute-force attacks much harder.
Step 4: Install a Security Plugin
Plugins like Wordfence or iThemes Security provide firewalls, malware scanning, and login protection in one package.
Step 5: Secure Your Hosting
Your WordPress security is only as strong as your hosting. Ensure your hosting provider offers firewalls, malware scans, SSL certificates, and backups.
Step 6: Use SSL (HTTPS)
SSL encryption isn’t just for e-commerce sites anymore—it’s a must for all websites. Many hosting providers, including MWDHosting, offer free SSL via Let’s Encrypt.
Step 7: Back Up Regularly
Even with the best security, no system is 100% safe. Regular backups ensure you can restore your site if something goes wrong. Use plugins like UpdraftPlus or rely on your hosting provider’s backup system.
Final Thoughts
Securing your WordPress site isn’t about installing one magic plugin—it’s about combining best practices. With updates, strong authentication, backups, and security plugins, you can drastically lower your risk and keep your site safe.