WordPress is currently the most used content management system in blogs as well as websites. WordPress popularity can largely be attributed by its versatility in managing content as well as adding functionalities through extensive library of plugins.
Although the system’s fabric is basically well secured, it is important to go a notch higher to ensure cyberpunks don’t outsmart you. Here are 5 basic tips to secure your WordPress blog or website.
1. Update, Update, Update!
There is nothing as vulnerable as a WordPress system that is not updated. Hackers are always vigilant on weaknesses that emerge in old systems, and if you fail to keep your system rationalized through new updates, you are at a high risk of getting your blog or website toppled.
If you are installing a new WordPress, ensure you download the latest version from the official website, and if you already have an installed one, keep it updated every time there is a new version.
2. Be wary of third-party plugins
WordPress functionalities are normally extended by use of plugins. While some of these plugins are developed as part of the system, most of them are made by third-party developers. Some of these plugins are not audited by the official developers of WordPress, and so, they might have security vulnerabilities which may pose a great risk of hacking. For this reason, ensure you only use plugins that are published in the official WordPress library.
3. Remove version details from ‘Header.php' file
Another WordPress element that hackers may use to exploit your system security vulnerabilities is version details. Normally, WordPress system has such details in the “Header.php” file, and once the hackers become aware of that version’s weaknesses, they can easily abuse it and get into your site. Therefore, it is always recommended that you remove WordPress current version details from ‘Header.php' file.
4. Always backup your database
You will never know when these cyberpunks may strike, and sometimes they may strike and catch unaware. To avoid losing everything, make sure you constantly back-up your stuff. You never know; other issues may emerge and cause your site to destabilize. You can use WP Database Backup plugin to backup your site or blog at least weekly.
5. Secure your ‘wp-config.php' file
‘WP-config.php' file is used to store your database name, username and password. If you leave this file unprotected, just like other public files, there’s no doubt this is going to lure any hacker to cause mess to your system. It is good to always ensure that the file is hidden from any kind of unauthorized access. There are various ways you can do this; one being modifying .htaccess file to protect the wp-config.php file, moving the file to a non-www location or modifying the file to call a hidden file bearing the database system. The method may depend on the kind of server you are running the WordPress system.
It is worth noting here that it is by observing those little security habits that may seem irrelevant will play the biggest role. For instance, it is extremely important to choose passwords wisely and keeping them safe. Otherwise, this could be the easiest break-through for any hacker
This article has been submitted by one of our outstanding guest bloggers. We welcome your comments below.
Guest Blogger: Ayush Kumar always passionate for internet marketing since college and working since 2005 in SEO, Web Designing and Development field and now managing http://SEObyExpert.com. He loves Writing, Online Marketing and everything related to technology.
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