Your website is one of your most important business tools, and hackers know it. A hacked website can cost money, customers, and your reputation. The good news? You don’t need to be a tech expert to secure your WordPress site. Here’s how.
1. Keep WordPress, Themes, and Plugins Updated
Outdated software is the easiest way for hackers to break in.
-
Always update WordPress to the latest version.
-
Update all plugins and themes regularly.
-
Remove plugins or themes you’re not using.
Updates often include security fixes, so this step alone prevents many attacks.
2. Use Strong Passwords
Weak passwords are easy to guess.
-
Use long, unique passwords for WordPress, hosting, and email accounts.
-
Include letters, numbers, and symbols.
-
Avoid obvious choices like “password123.”
Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong passwords.
3. Limit Login Attempts
Hackers often try to guess your password by attempting multiple logins.
-
Install a plugin like Login Lockdown or Wordfence to limit failed login attempts.
-
This blocks repeated attacks automatically.
4. Use Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
2FA adds an extra layer of security.
-
Even if someone steals your password, they can’t log in without a code from your phone.
-
Plugins like WP 2FA or Wordfence make this easy.
5. Install a Security Plugin
Security plugins add protection, monitoring, and alerts.
Good options include:
-
Wordfence – Scans for malware, blocks hackers, and monitors traffic.
-
iThemes Security – Adds extra layers of protection for login and site files.
A security plugin acts like an alarm system for your website.
6. Backup Your Website Regularly
If something goes wrong, you need a way to restore your website.
-
Use plugins like UpdraftPlus or BackupBuddy.
-
Store backups offsite (like Google Drive or Dropbox).
-
Schedule regular automatic backups.
Backups are your safety net, always have one.
7. Use HTTPS / SSL Certificate
An SSL certificate encrypts the connection between your website and visitors.
-
This keeps data safe (like contact forms or payments).
-
Google also prefers HTTPS sites, which can improve SEO.
-
Most hosts include SSL for free – make sure it’s enabled.
8. Remove Unnecessary Plugins and Themes
Every extra plugin is another potential vulnerability.
-
Only keep what you actually use.
-
Delete inactive plugins and themes completely.
-
Fewer tools = fewer risks.
9. Monitor Your Website
Check regularly for unusual activity:
-
Unexpected login attempts
-
Unknown users
-
Strange website behaviour
-
Spam content
Many security plugins include monitoring and alerts, so you’ll know immediately if something looks wrong.
10. Work With Professionals if Needed
If you’re unsure, it’s worth having a professional secure your website.
-
Small businesses often overlook security until it’s too late.
-
A professional can implement strong protection, backups, and monitoring so you can focus on your business.
Final Thoughts
Securing your WordPress website doesn’t need to be complicated. The key steps are:
-
keep everything updated
-
use strong passwords and 2FA
-
install a security plugin
-
back up your site regularly
-
use HTTPS
Taking these steps protects your business, your customers, and your reputation.
At SwiftSites, we make sure all our clients’ websites are secure from day one, so you can focus on growing your business without worrying about hackers.
