WordPress powers a very large share of the web, which makes it a frequent target for automated attacks. Most hacked sites are compromised through outdated software, weak passwords or untrusted plugins, not sophisticated attacks. These 10 steps will make your WordPress website much harder to break into.
1. Keep WordPress, themes and plugins updated
Updates patch known vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates for minor releases and review plugin and theme updates weekly.
2. Use strong, unique passwords
Use a password manager to create long, unique passwords for WordPress, hosting, email and FTP accounts. Never reuse passwords.
3. Turn on two-factor authentication
Two-factor authentication (2FA) stops most stolen-password attacks. Many security plugins offer it for all admin and editor accounts.
4. Limit login attempts
Brute-force bots try thousands of passwords. Limiting failed attempts, or adding a CAPTCHA to the login form, blocks them.
5. Install only trusted themes and plugins
Download from the official WordPress directory or reputable vendors. Avoid nulled (pirated) premium items, which often contain hidden malware. Delete anything you do not use.
6. Back up regularly
Backups are your safety net. Keep automatic daily or weekly backups, store at least one copy off the server, and test that you can restore it.
7. Use HTTPS everywhere
An SSL certificate encrypts data between your visitors and your server. Most hosts provide one free; make sure all pages redirect to HTTPS.
8. Add a security plugin and firewall
Plugins such as Wordfence or similar tools provide a web application firewall, malware scanning and login protection. Use one well-configured tool rather than several that overlap.
9. Harden your configuration
- Disable the built-in file editor by adding
define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);to wp-config.php. - Use correct file permissions, commonly 755 for folders and 644 for files.
- Do not use “admin” as a username.
- Remove inactive user accounts and give each person the lowest role they need.
10. Monitor your website
Enable activity logs and uptime monitoring so you notice unusual changes quickly. Google Search Console also warns you about security issues it detects.
What to do if your site is hacked
- Contact your host and change all passwords.
- Restore a clean backup taken before the attack.
- Update everything and remove unknown plugins, themes and users.
- Run a malware scan and request a review in Google Search Console if your site was flagged.
Conclusion
Security is a habit, not a one-time task. Updates, strong logins, trusted code and good backups prevent the large majority of problems. If you want this handled for you, see our WordPress maintenance and security service, and make sure your site is also fast with our speed guide.
Need help with your WordPress website?
DilshadWeb builds fast, secure and SEO-friendly WordPress websites with Elementor and WooCommerce. Browse our WordPress development services or contact us to discuss your project.
Related reading
- WooCommerce Store Setup in Pakistan: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
- How to Hire a WordPress Developer in Pakistan: 10 Things to Check
- WordPress Website Cost in Pakistan: What Affects the Price
Need help? See my WordPress development services.
