WordPress Security 101: Plugins and Server Settings
WordPress powers over 40% of websites globally — and that popularity makes it a prime target for cyberattacks. Whether you’re managing a blog, an e-commerce store, or a corporate website, WordPress security should be one of your top priorities.
In this beginner-friendly guide, we at Vicservers will walk you through the essentials of securing your WordPress site using plugins and proper server configurations.
Why WordPress Security Matters
- 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses
- Over 90,000 attacks happen on WordPress sites every minute
- A hacked site can cost you time, money, traffic, and reputation
Fortunately, you don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to protect your site. All it takes is smart plugin choices and secure server settings.
Essential WordPress Security Plugins
1. Wordfence Security
Features:
- Web application firewall (WAF)
- Real-time traffic monitoring
- Malware scanning and repair
Why we recommend it:
Wordfence offers one of the best free versions for site protection, plus detailed reports.
2. iThemes Security
Features:
- Brute-force protection
- 404 detection
- File change monitoring
Why we recommend it:
It’s great for beginners and includes over 30 security tweaks right out of the box.
3. Sucuri Security
Features:
- Malware detection
- Website firewall (premium)
- Security activity auditing
Why we recommend it:
Sucuri also offers free malware cleanup with their premium plan — a lifesaver after an attack.
4. WP Login Lockdown
Features:
- Restricts login attempts from the same IP
- Stops brute-force attacks
- Customizable lockout times
Why we recommend it:
Simple and lightweight — great for protecting your WordPress login page.
5. UpdraftPlus (for Backup)
Features:
- Scheduled backups to Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.
- Restore directly from WordPress
- Supports file/database backup
Why we recommend it:
In case of an attack, backups will save your life. UpdraftPlus is the most reliable free backup plugin.
Secure Server Settings (The Vicservers Way)
As important as plugins are, server security is your first line of defense. Here’s how to lock down your hosting environment — especially if you’re on a VPS or dedicated server.
1. Use a Secure Hosting Provider
Choose a host like Vicservers that provides:
- Free SSL
- Firewall & malware scanning
- Regular software patching
- Isolated server environments
2. Keep PHP and MySQL Up-to-Date
Older versions are full of vulnerabilities. Always upgrade to the latest stable versions of:
- PHP (e.g., 8.1 or above)
- MySQL / MariaDB
On Vicservers, we handle these updates for you.
3. Disable Directory Listing
Add this to your .htaccess file to prevent visitors from seeing the contents of folders:
Options -Indexes
4. Limit File Permissions
Set the correct file and folder permissions:
Files: 644
Folders: 755
wp-config.php: 400 or 440
This ensures hackers can’t modify key files.
5. Move wp-config.php and .htaccess
Move sensitive config files one directory above the web root when possible. This adds a layer of protection from browser-based access.
6. Use SSH/SFTP Instead of FTP
Disable traditional FTP and always use SFTP or SSH for secure file transfers.
7. Install a Web Application Firewall (WAF)
Use a server-level WAF like:
- CSF Firewall
- Fail2Ban (blocks brute-force IPs)
- ModSecurity (built into many cPanels)
We include these on all Vicservers managed VPS.
Additional Tips for Locking Down WordPress
- Use strong passwords & 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication)
- Change the default login URL from
/wp-login.phpto something unique - Limit user roles and audit accounts regularly
- Delete unused plugins and themes
- Install a CAPTCHA on login and comment forms
Automate, Monitor, and Recover
Automate:
- Daily backups with UpdraftPlus
- Plugin/theme updates with tools like ManageWP or via cPanel
Monitor:
- Use Wordfence Live Traffic and Sucuri logs
- Set up email alerts for suspicious logins
Recover:
- Keep regular off-site backups
- Have a security action plan if you’re compromised
Pro Tips from Vicservers Experts
- Use Cloudflare for an additional security layer & DDoS protection
- Don’t install plugins from untrusted sources
- Consider a staging environment for safe testing
- Use cPanel’s IP blocker to blacklist frequent offenders
Final Thoughts
WordPress is powerful — but with power comes responsibility. Fortunately, keeping your site safe doesn’t require a cybersecurity degree. A combination of smart plugin choices, proper server configurations, and a reliable host like Vicservers gives your site a strong security foundation.
Need Help Securing Your WordPress Site?
Our team at Vicservers offers:
✅ WordPress hardening
✅ VPS firewall setup
✅ Free SSL installation
✅ Daily malware scans
✅ Full website recovery
Let’s Secure Your WordPress Site Today
🌐 www.vicservers.com
📧 support@vicservers.com
By Vicservers | Web Hosting Experts in Nigeria
