Want to keep your WordPress site secure? Follow this detailed 21-step checklist to protect your website from threats and ensure its safety.
1. Daily Cloud Backups
Regular backups are crucial. Here’s how we handle them:
- Secure Cloud Storage: Daily backups are stored using Amazon S3 infrastructure.
- One-Click Restore: Quickly restore your core files and database if needed.
2. Force Secure Passwords
Strong passwords are essential for security. We:
- Audit Admin Usernames: Perform manual audits to prevent brute force attacks.
- Require Strong Passwords: Ensure all users create strong, secure passwords.
3. Brute Force Protection
To defend against brute force attacks:
- Change Login URL: Alter your WordPress dashboard login URL.
- Set Up Firewall: Implement a firewall to block unauthorized access.
- Automated IP Blocking: Automatically block IP addresses after multiple failed login attempts.
4. Daily Malware Scan
Regular malware scans keep your site safe:
- Automatic Scanning: Daily scans for malware, malicious code, and potential backdoors.
- Immediate Repair: Quick repair of any files altered by hackers.
5. SSL Certificate
An SSL certificate encrypts data and enhances security:
- HTTPS Protocol: Your URL will start with https for encrypted data transmission.
- Visitor Trust: Assures visitors that their data is secure.
6. Database Protection
Protect your database from attacks:
- SQL Injection Prevention: Secure your database from SQL injection attacks.
7. Real-Time Monitoring
Monitor your website in real time:
- Hack Attempt Detection: Immediate response to security threats.
- Adaptive Security: Adjust security measures based on threat levels.
8. IP Blocking
Prevent unauthorized access with IP blocking:
- Intelligent Network Blocking: Block traffic from specific locations or IP addresses.
- Lock Out Repeat Offenders: Automatically block IP addresses with multiple failed access attempts.
9. Install a Firewall
A firewall helps protect against unauthorized access:
- Effective Blocking: Block suspicious traffic and prevent attacks.
- Customizable Settings: Adjust firewall settings to meet your security needs.
10. Custom Login URL
Change the default login URL to increase security:
- Hide Login Page: Modify the login URL to make it harder for bots to find.
11. File Permissions
Control file access to enhance security:
- Set Permissions: Adjust file permissions to limit access to trusted users only.
12. 2-Factor Authentication
Add an extra layer of security:
- Mobile Code: Require a code sent to your mobile device for login.
13. Daily Database Optimization
Keep your database running smoothly:
- Clean Up: Regularly clean the table overhead and optimize for speed.
14. Daily Link Scan
Ensure all links are secure and functional:
- Scan for Suspicious Links: Identify and fix links leading to broken or malicious content.
15. Blocking Fake Google Crawlers
Prevent fake bots from accessing your site:
- Identify Real Crawlers: Ensure only legitimate Googlebots can crawl your site.
16. Verify Trusted Sources
Ensure all plugins and themes are from reliable sources:
- Trusted Sources: Check that plugins and themes are authenticated by wordpress.org.
17. DNS Change Alerts
Monitor changes to your DNS settings:
- Regular Scanning: Detect and address any DNS changes that could affect site availability.
18. Comment Spam Filtering
Keep your site free from spam:
- Daily Cleaning: Remove junk comments and optimize your site’s performance.
19. Manage Inactive Plugins
Remove outdated or unused plugins:
- Review Regularly: Disable and remove plugins that are not actively used.
20. Daily Plugin and Theme Scan
Ensure all plugins and themes are secure:
- File Scanning: Compare files with the WordPress repository to detect any discrepancies.
21. Authentication Keys and Salts
Enhance encryption with secure authentication:
- Random Variables: Implement random variables to improve the encryption of user data.
Key Security Tools
1. iThemes Security Pro
- Features: Comprehensive security plugin with advanced protection.
- Cost: $49/month.
2. MalCare
- Features: Automatic malware detection with minimal server load.
- Cost: $8/month.
Need Expert Assistance?
For personalized support in securing your WordPress site, consider booking a consultation. Our team can provide tailored solutions to safeguard your website effectively.
By implementing these 21 steps, you can ensure a highly secure WordPress website, protect against various threats, and maintain the integrity of your site. For ongoing security, regularly review and update your protection strategies.
