WordPress powers millions of websites worldwide, making it a primary target for automated attacks. Most breaches happen due to weak passwords, outdated plugins, exposed files, or misconfigured servers — not because of manual hacking.
At Wisegigs.eu, we secure WordPress environments using structured, real-world hardening practices. This guide outlines the same workflow we apply to our clients’ websites to keep them fast, secure, and reliable.
1. Start With Strong Login Protection
Most attacks begin at the login page. Strengthening this area immediately reduces your risk.
Use two-factor authentication:
Add an extra verification step to protect against password leaks.
Limit login attempts:
Blocking repeated failed attempts prevents brute-force attacks and reduces server load.
Disable XML-RPC if unused:
This feature is rarely required today and is frequently abused for attacks.
Enforce strong, unique passwords:
Admin and hosting accounts should follow strict password standards.
At Wisegigs.eu, we apply these login rules by default to block the most common attack methods.
Explore our WordPress security services
2. Secure Key Files and Directories
Certain WordPress files contain sensitive information and must be protected.
Secure wp-config:
Restrict access and place it outside the public directory to protect database credentials.
Apply proper file permissions:
Following strict permission standards limits potential damage even if a file is compromised.
Block direct access to sensitive paths:
Hide log files, configuration files, and backend directories.
Click here to learn more about WordPress Permissions
3. Harden the Server Environment
True security starts at the server layer. This is where the most significant threats are neutralized.
Use a hardened hosting stack:
We typically deploy:
– NGINX/Apache with strict security rules
– Redis caching
– MariaDB with secure access configuration
– Virtualmin for structured VPS management
Limit SSH access:
Disable root login, use SSH keys, and restrict access to trusted IPs only.
Use automated blocking systems:
Firewalls and WAF tools can stop suspicious activity before reaching WordPress.
Close unnecessary ports:
Only essential services should be publicly reachable.
At Wisegigs.eu, our VPS setups follow strict security standards for long-term stability.
4. Keep the WordPress Dashboard Clean
A clean dashboard is easier to secure and reduces human error.
Disable theme and plugin file editing:
Removes the risk of accidental or malicious file changes from wp-admin.
Limit the number of admin accounts:
Fewer high-level accounts reduce potential entry points.
Remove unused themes and plugins:
Even inactive plugins load code. Deleting them reduces attack surface.
Choose reputable plugins only:
Use tools with active support and regular updates.
At Wisegigs.eu, we conduct routine dashboard audits to maintain safety and efficiency.
5. Add Security Headers
Security headers add browser-level protection against common attacks.
Useful examples include:
– Preventing your site from loading inside iframes
– Enforcing HTTPS
– Activating XSS protections
– Setting strict referrer policies
Adding these headers improves overall site safety with minimal effort.
How to Add HTTP Security Headers in WordPress (Beginner’s Guide)
6. Monitor for Malware and Suspicious Activity
Security requires ongoing attention.
Use a trustworthy malware scanner:
Detect hidden scripts, modified files, and unusual activity.
Enable file integrity monitoring:
Alerts you if core files change unexpectedly.
Avoid nulled themes/plugins:
These are the most common sources of malware.
7. Control the REST API
The REST API can reveal information that attackers can use.
Block public user enumeration:
Prevents outsiders from accessing your username list.
Disable unneeded endpoints:
Only keep the routes required by your theme or plugins.
Controlling your API reduces exposure and strengthens your site’s privacy.
8. Maintain a Strong Backup Strategy
Backups are your safety net.
Use a layered backup plan:
– Daily full backups
– Frequent database backups
– Remote/cloud storage
– Long-term retention
Store backups offsite:
Cloud solutions like S3 or Backblaze protect you even if your server fails.
Test your restore process:
A backup is only valuable if it works when needed.
At Wisegigs.eu, we implement structured backup systems for all client websites.
9. Keep Everything Updated
Updates close vulnerabilities and improve performance.
– Update plugins and themes regularly
– Remove abandoned tools
– Keep PHP versions modern
– Allow automatic minor WordPress updates
Staying updated is one of the simplest ways to stay protected.
Conclusion
WordPress security is about building layers of protection that work together. To keep your site safe:
– Strengthen the login area
– Secure sensitive files
– Harden your server
– Keep your dashboard clean
– Add security headers
– Monitor regularly
– Maintain strong backups
– Stay updated
A secure WordPress site is faster, more stable, and more trustworthy.
Ready to secure your WordPress site the right way? Contact us today.