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How to Secure WordPress Sites as a Developer
WordPress powers over 40% of the web — which makes it a popular target for hackers. As a developer, you play a critical role in securing WordPress websites. This guide will walk you through the best practices and tools to secure WordPress sites in 2025.
1. Keep Everything Updated
Core: Always run the latest stable version of WordPress.
Themes & Plugins: Outdated extensions are a major attack vector.
Use tools like WP-CLI or ManageWP for bulk updates.
2. Enforce Strong User Authentication
Use strong passwords and enforce them with plugins like Password Policy Manager.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) using plugins like Wordfence Login Security or miniOrange 2FA.
Limit login attempts with plugins like Limit Login Attempts Reloaded.
3. Secure the Login Page
Change the default login URL (/wp-login.php) using plugins like WPS Hide Login.
Add CAPTCHA or honeypot fields to block bots.
Disable XML-RPC if not needed (xmlrpc.php is often exploited).
4. Sanitize and Validate All User Input
Always use sanitize_text_field(), esc_html(), and similar WordPress functions.
Prevent XSS, CSRF, and SQL injection attacks by following secure coding standards.
Escape output properly in themes and plugins.
5. Use a Web Application Firewall (WAF)
Use security plugins like:
Wordfence – Comprehensive protection, includes firewall and malware scanning.
Sucuri Security – Cloud-based WAF and DDoS protection.
6. Protect Core Files and Directories
Set the correct file permissions:
wp-config.php → 400 or 440
wp-content → 755
Prevent direct access to sensitive files via .htaccess:
apache<Files wp-config.php>
Order Allow,Deny
Deny from all
</Files>
7. Monitor File Changes and Malware
Use Wordfence, iThemes Security, or MalCare to detect unauthorized changes.
Regularly scan for malware and receive alerts about suspicious activity
8. Disable Unused Features
REST API: Limit access if you’re not using it (use plugins like Disable REST API).
Directory listing: Disable it via .htaccess or server settings.
XML-RPC: Disable unless required for remote publishing or plugins.
9. Use Trusted Plugins and Themes
Only install plugins/themes from trusted sources (WordPress.org, reputable developers).
Check last update date and user reviews.
Avoid nulled or pirated plugins — they often contain malware.
10. Implement Backups and Recovery
Use backup plugins like:
UpdraftPlus
BlogVault
BackupBuddy
Store backups offsite (Dropbox, Google Drive, or S3).
11. Secure wp-config.php and .htaccess
Move wp-config.php one directory above root (if supported).
Restrict access to .htaccess and disable editing from WP Admin (DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT in wp-config.php).
php define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);
12. Use Security Headers
Add security headers using server configuration or plugins:
apacheHeader set X-Content-Type-Options "nosniff"
Header set X-Frame-Options "SAMEORIGIN"
Header set X-XSS-Protection "1; mode=block"
13. Audit and Monitor Activity
Use plugins like Activity Log, WP Security Audit Log to track user actions.
Keep an eye on new users, plugin installs, and setting changes.
Final Thoughts
Security is not a one-time action — it’s an ongoing process. As a WordPress developer, you should:
Write secure code
Use reliable tools
Follow best practices
Stay updated on vulnerabilities
Protect your clients, protect your projects, and build a reputation as a trustworthy developer.