...

8 Best Free WordPress Security Measures 2024

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

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 Outdated software is like leaving your front door wide open to hackers.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

Updates Notification On The Wordpress Dashboard

2. Look for update notifications

How To Know If You Have A Plugin Update

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

Example Of A Strong Password

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”

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”

Free Plugin To Backup Your Wordpress Website - 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:

Malware And Security Scanners

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.

Hi, I'm Giojoy, a digital marketing consultant specializing in WordPress Development, Marketing Automation and Traffic Generation strategies. I have been using WordPress for well over 10 years to generate revenue for clients all across the Caribbean, and now I want to help SMB owners or anyone struggling to understand Digital Marketing. Expertise: WordPress Development Google Ads Marketing Automation Digital Marketing Education BSc. Psychology (Special) From University of West Indies: Cave Hill Campus Certifications Google Ads: Display Google Ads: Search Google Ads: Video Google Ads: Measurement Specialization: Digital Marketing Strategy and Planning by Digital Marketing Institute Started working in Digital Marketing Role from the age of 19 up until current day; that is 13 years and counting of digital expertise.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top

Join The List

Sign up to receive exclusive discounts and special offers from our partners along with tips and tricks to aid your Digital Journey!

Seraphinite AcceleratorOptimized by Seraphinite Accelerator
Turns on site high speed to be attractive for people and search engines.