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Keeping your WordPress site safe doesn’t have to cost money. Here are the top free WordPress security measures you can use today to protect your website from threats. These steps will help reduce the risk of hacks, malware, and data breaches without spending anything.
8 Key Takeaways: Free WordPress Security Measures
Free WordPress Security Measures
- Tip 1: Keep WordPress core, themes, and plugins updated
- Tip 2: Use strong passwords
- Tip 3: Limit login attempts
- Tip 4: Enable two-factor authentication
- Tip 5: Change default WordPress settings
- Tip 6: Perform regular backups
- Tip 7: Install a free security plugin
- Tip 8: Monitor and scan for malware regularly
Table of Contents
1. Update WordPress Core, Themes, and Plugins
Keeping everything up-to-date is your first line of defense. Outdated software is like leaving your front door wide open to hackers. WordPress makes it easy to stay current:
1. Go to your WordPress dashboard
2. Look for update notifications
3. Click to update each item
You can also turn on automatic updates for minor releases. This helps patch security vulnerabilities quickly without you lifting a finger. It’s important to update not just the WordPress core, but also all themes and plugins. Developers regularly release patches to fix security issues, and staying current protects you against known vulnerabilities.
Avoid common WordPress mistakes by setting a regular schedule to check for and apply updates. Maybe pick a day each week to review and implement any pending updates.
2. Implement Strong Password Policies
Weak passwords are like using a paper lock on a safe. Make it tough for hackers by:
1. Using a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols
2. Making passwords at least 12 characters long
3. Using a unique password for each account
Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords securely. It’s like having a super-smart robot remember all your passwords for you! Password managers not only help create strong, unique passwords but also make it easier to use different passwords for each of your accounts, which really improves your security.
Make sure all users on your WordPress site use strong passwords. You can use plugins that check password strength when users sign up or change passwords.
If you think your site’s been hacked, don’t worry. Learn how to reset your WordPress website and get back in control.
3. Limit Login Attempts
Imagine a burglar trying every key on their ring to open your door. That’s what hackers do with passwords. Stop them by limiting login attempts:
1. Install a free plugin like “Limit Login Attempts Reloaded”
2. Set a maximum number of failed attempts (e.g., 5) I recommend anything lower than the default value as these standards are well known.
3. Choose a lockout duration (e.g., 30 minutes) Personally I recommend locking out individuals for 24 hrs or longer.
This simple step can stop many automated attacks and brute-force attempts. By limiting login attempts, you’re putting a cap on how many times someone can guess a password before being temporarily locked out. This protects against automated attacks and alerts you to potential security threats.
Consider using IP-based lockouts along with username-based restrictions. This adds extra protection against distributed attacks.
For more ways to boost your site’s security, check out our guide on choosing the best web hosting.
You May Also Like: Power Up Your Protection: Easy WordPress Two-Factor Authentication
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication is like adding a second lock to your door. Even if someone guesses your password, they still can’t get in without the second key. Here’s how to set it up:
1. Choose a free 2FA plugin (e.g., “Google Authenticator”)
2. Install and activate the plugin
3. Set up 2FA for your admin account
4. Encourage all users to enable 2FA
This extra layer of security makes it much harder for unauthorized users to access your site. 2FA typically involves something you know (your password) and something you have (like a mobile device that generates a code). This combination makes it really hard for attackers to get in without permission.
Consider offering multiple 2FA options to users, such as SMS, email, or authenticator apps, to make sure everyone can use it.
5. Change Default WordPress Settings
Out-of-the-box WordPress settings can be a security risk. Make these simple changes to tighten up your site:
1. Change the default admin username from “admin” to something unique
2. Modify your database prefix from “wp_” to a custom prefix
3. Disable XML-RPC if you’re not using it
These tweaks make your site less predictable and harder for hackers to exploit common vulnerabilities. By changing the default settings, you’re customizing your WordPress installation, making it more difficult for automated attacks that rely on default setups to succeed.
Also think about hiding your WordPress version number from public view and turning off the file editor in the WordPress admin area to prevent potential exploits.
If you’re building a new site, consider the security aspects of custom vs. premade WordPress themes.
6. Perform Regular Backups
Backups are your safety net. If something goes wrong, you can restore your site quickly. Here’s how to back up for free:
1. Use a free backup plugin like “UpdraftPlus”
2. Set up automatic backups (daily or weekly)
3. Store backups in a secure, off-site location (e.g., Google Drive)
Regular backups ensure you never lose more than a day’s worth of data, even in the worst-case scenario. It’s not just about having backups; it’s about having recent, complete backups that cover your entire WordPress installation, including the database, themes, plugins, and uploaded files.
Test your backup and restore process sometimes to make sure it works as expected. There’s nothing worse than finding out your backups are incomplete or broken when you really need them.
7. Install a Free Security Plugin
Security plugins are like having a security guard for your website. They can help with:
1. Malware scanning
2. Firewall protection
3. Login security
4. File integrity monitoring
Popular free options include Wordfence, Sucuri Security, and iThemes Security. Choose one that fits your needs and keep it updated. These plugins often provide comprehensive security features that would be hard to set up manually, such as real-time threat defense, security hardening, and post-hack security actions.
While free versions offer good protection, consider the premium versions for advanced features if your site handles sensitive data or gets a lot of traffic.
For professional-grade security management, explore our WordPress hosting and maintenance services.
8. Monitor and Scan for Malware
Regular check-ups keep your site healthy. Set up free monitoring and scanning:
1. Use Google Search Console to monitor for security issues
2. Install a free malware scanning plugin
3. Set up regular scans (at least weekly)
4. Act quickly if any issues are detected
Catching problems early can prevent major headaches later. Regular monitoring and scanning help you find and fix security issues before they become big problems. Many security plugins offer scheduled scanning features, letting you automate this process.
In addition to automated scans, manually check your site’s files and database sometimes. Look for unfamiliar files, unexpected changes to your theme or plugin files, or suspicious database entries.
Conclusion: Stay Vigilant, Stay Secure
Securing your WordPress site is an ongoing process, not a one-time task. By using these free measures, you’re building a strong foundation for your site’s security. Remember to stay informed about new threats and update your security practices regularly.
While these free measures provide good protection, web security is always changing. Keep learning about new threats and best practices. Maybe join WordPress security forums or follow security blogs to stay up-to-date with the latest in WordPress security.
For more expert advice on managing your WordPress site, check out our digital solutions or contact us with any questions. We’re here to help you keep your site safe and running smoothly!
Frequently Asked Questions: WordPress Security
How often should I update my WordPress site?
Check for updates at least weekly and apply them as soon as possible. For critical security updates, try to implement them within 24 hours of release.
Can I really secure my site for free?
Yes! While paid options exist, these free measures provide good protection for most sites. However, for busy or e-commerce sites, consider adding some premium security services.
What’s the most important security measure?
Regular updates and strong passwords are the foundation of good security practices. However, using multiple security measures together works best.
How do I know if my site has been hacked?
Look for unexpected changes, strange content, or warnings from Google. Use a security plugin for regular scans. Also, watch your site’s performance and user reports, as slow loading times or user complaints can be signs of a hacked site.
