A 2022 report by W3Techs shows that 43.2% of websites on the internet are WordPress websites. And by comparing the user percentage and the total number of websites, Manaferra puts the figure at 835 million globally.
That’s a staggering figure!
Choosing WordPress for your website is a very good business decision. Aside from WordPress being a popular and highly effective user-friendly platform, it is also very secure for operating an online business.
More and more people recognize the opportunities provided by this amazing online tool, and that’s why its users continue to grow. But, also, since it powers a huge number of global websites, it is no surprise why it continues to be a constant target by hackers.
WordPress websites get hacked from time to time, and it is estimated that at least 13,000 websites get hacked daily-around 4.7 million per year!
Some get hacked through vulnerable themes, WordPress plugins, and the use of weak passwords. However, you can protect your digital business on WordPress with a few security practices and security solutions.
1. Get Started with SASE Architecture
The SASE meaning: A network and security architecture that converges traditional networking security and Network-as-a-Service into a single comprehensive cloud-delivery framework. So, instead of users acquiring the already existing technology from different vendors, SASE makes it deliverable in a single cloud-based network security model.
SASE offers complete flexibility to your network security. It is policy-driven and largely independent of location and device. It is a completely software-defined service and doesn’t depend on any hardware appliance or location. You can apply SASE at the ever-shifting, local edge of the network instead of applying it at the physical edge. Many IoT devices do not have a local security capability; however, SASE can ensure a safe connection between these devices.
2. Search for a Secure Hosting Company
Your first move should ensure that your WordPress website is hosted in a secure environment. Research adequately before settling for a hosting option. Ask the company to provide a security firewall, update PHP and MySQL versions, and a malware scanning extension in your server environment.
There are several hosting companies to opt for; some popular ones include Siteground, Bluehost, and WP Engine. But, more importantly, find out the steps the hosting company takes to secure your information and prompt measures in place to recover your website if an attack occurs.
3. Use the Latest WordPress Version
Sticking to outdated WordPress versions puts your site in a potentially hackable state. And to avoid this, you have to update to the latest WordPress.
The latest versions have addressed bugs that are present in the old. You should consider backing up your site before carrying out an update. You should also update your plugins and themes when necessary. Hackers can crack old plugins and themes. So, check your admin area on your WordPress to see if an update is available for your plugins.
4. Switch to HTTPS
The Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) secures your website and visitors’ web browsers. So, traffic from your visitors to your site is encrypted and secure from being interrupted. Using a valid SSL certificate will create that secure connection.
Some plugins will allow you to do this on WordPress. And aside from this approach boosting your SEO, it also gives a secure impression to visitors when they are about to access your site.
To know if your site has the SSL protocol, check out the homepage and see if it begins with “https://.” You’ll have to obtain an SSL certificate if the last ‘s’ is missing. The ‘s’ stands for ‘secure.
5. Install a Firewall
Using a firewall on your site helps to filter good traffic from bad ones. It sits between the network that hosts your WordPress and every other network.
Its major focus is to eliminate malicious activity by preventing the direct connection between other networks and yours.’ Check for a plugin like Web Application Firewall (WAF) or other secure alternatives compatible with your website.
6. Backup Your Website Frequently
You don’t want to face the horrible experience of being hacked. You may lose all your data as a result. However, one way you can save your data is to back them up from time to time.
If an attack happens, you’ll still be able to regain access to your files. Consider running an automatic backup approach along with periodic manual backup on drives. Doing this can quickly restore a previous version and keep your business running again.
7. Install a Security Plugin
Countless plugins are being showcased as security plugins. However, ensure to make your choice carefully before using a plugin. WordPress security plugins can help you add quick security features to your website even when you have little to know programming skills.
Ensure that you use a regularly updated plugin compatible with your WordPress version. Some options to look out for includes Wordfence Security — firewall & Malware Scan, Jetpack – WP Security, Backup, Speed, & Growth, iThemes Security, and All In One WP Security & Firewall.
