In this article we’ll look at the all-important issue of WordPress security. We’ll start with some simple security tips, then we’ll introduce you to the best WordPress security plugins 2020.
Let’s get started…
Keep Your WordPress Site Secure
More than one-third of all websites use WordPress as their CMS. That makes it the world’s most used content management system. But popularity comes at a cost, and WordPress is also an appealing target for malware creators and hackers.
Here are 5 simple steps you can take to boost your WordPress security:
- Use a strong password – and keep it secret! (Here’s a quick guide on how to keep passwords safe.)
- Install a WordPress firewall and malware scanner
- Use SSL connections to safeguard data
- Apply updates regularly
- Create backups to restore from in the event of a security breach
Tip: We’ve only scratched the surface here. This WPBeginner WordPress security checklist provides a more detailed look at the topic. Otherwise, keep reading to discover which security plugins you should install.
Our Top 5 Security Plugins
1. Sucuri Security
Sucuri Security gets our vote as the best free WordPress security plugin. (You can also upgrade to the paid version to access an enhanced feature set.)
This powerful auditing and monitoring tool gives a great overview of unwanted activity on your WordPress website. As well as malware scanning and security hardening, Sucuri Security will warn you if someone has been tampering with important files. You’ll also get a warning if a would-be hacker makes failed log-in attempts.
Download Sucuri WordPress plugin.
2. Wordfence
Wordfence is a capable WordPress malware scanner and firewall, all in one. It’s currently used on more than 2-million WordPress sites. The user-friendly interface makes it ideal for beginners.
You can choose between a free and premium version of Wordfence – depending on your needs.
3. All in One WP Security and Firewall
This handy plugin makes it easy to harden your website against attacks. The dashboard includes a security strength meter that gives an instant overview of how secure your site is.
Another appealing feature is the security grading system. This points-based system makes it simple to identify WordPress security vulnerabilities. You could bring these weak spots together to create a WordPress security checklist, then improve them one by one.
Download All in One WP Security and Firewall
4. iThemes Security
This easy-to-use WordPress security plugin isn’t quite as feature-rich as some on this list. But that isn’t really the point. iThemes Security is simple and accessible – even for WordPress novices.
If you’re looking for a plugin with a clean, uncluttered interface, then iThemes Security could be right for you.
5. Jetpack
Jetpack is among the most popular WordPress plugins. It actually includes a whole range of features – from backup tools to performance boosters. You might not immediately associate Jetpack with WordPress security. But it does include protection from nasties like spam, malware injections and brute force log-in attempts.
If you’re looking for WordPress security tools that come as part of a wider suite, then Jetpack could be perfect.
Learn More: The WordPress experts at WPBeginner have also put together a great guide covering the best WordPress security plugins. We recommend it!
