Whether you manage a business or personal website, the following steps will help safeguard your site and provide peace of mind.
1. Backup and Update Regularly
Before making site changes, first backup everything with a plugin like Duplicator. Download the resulting backup files to your computer or an external drive in case you need to restore your site quickly.
Afterwards, update your WordPress core, plugins, and themes to remove vulnerabilities and prevent exploits. Outdated software is a common method hackers gain access to sites. I recommend performing updates quarterly at a minimum. Monthly updates offer even better protection.
2. Use Strong Passwords and Enable 2FA
Weak or reused passwords are another typical entry point for attackers. Make sure your WordPress admin login and hosting account both use strong, unique passwords.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for increased security. This adds another verification step, such as entering a code sent to your phone, and makes it much more difficult for hackers to break in even if they have your password.
3. Install and Maintain a Security Plugin
A security plugin acts as your website’s first line of defense against malicious activity. I use and recommend Shield Security for all my client sites. It’s easy to configure and offers excellent protection. If your site handles sensitive information or e-commerce transactions, upgrade to ShieldPro for more robust security features, such as file scanning and advanced bot detection.
4. Remove Unused Plugins and Themes
Unused plugins and themes can create vulnerabilities, especially if they’re outdated and no longer supported. Delete unused or abandoned plugins and themes to reduce security risks.
Wrapping Up
Website security isn’t a “set it and forget it” task—it’s an ongoing process that evolves as new threats emerge. Implementing these tips will go a long way towards protecting your online presence.
If you need to secure your WordPress site, feel free to reach out. I specialize in building and maintaining websites for small businesses and would be glad to upgrade your site’s protection and performance.