Are WordPress Websites Secure?

Your website is much more than just a digital address. It's the face of your business, so security breaches could result in lost data, loss of customers' trust, and even reputational damage. Being an open-source system, WordPress is quite flexible and customizable but puts more responsibility on your part for maintaining its site secure.

The other platforms that handle most of the security for you include Webflow and Shopify. WordPress gives you an opportunity to have full control so that you can implement security measures on your own—an excellent option for those that want customization with robust security.

Here are five top security plugins that can transform your WordPress website into a fortress:

1. Wordfence Security
   • Offers a firewall and malware scanner.
   • Tracks live traffic and blocks malicious IPs.
2. Sucuri Security
   • Provides continuous monitoring and malware cleanup.
   • Offers a web application firewall (WAF) to stop attacks before they happen.
3. Solid Security (Formerly iThemes Security)
   • Great for beginners with an easy-to-use interface.
   • Strengthens login security with two-factor authentication and password requirements.
4. WPScan
   • A tool specifically designed to detect vulnerabilities in themes, plugins, and core WordPress files.
5. All In One WP Security & Firewall
   • Beginner-friendly but powerful, offering login lockdowns, file protection, and database security.

In addition to plugins, here are some essential practices to protect your site:

1. Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication: Prevent unauthorized access with robust passwords and a second layer of login verification.
2. Regular Updates: Always update WordPress core, themes, and plugins to fix vulnerabilities.
3. SSL Certificate: Encrypt data transfers with an SSL certificate—an absolute must for any site.
4. Limit Login Attempts: Protect against brute force attacks by limiting the number of login tries.

Platforms like Wix and Webflow may handle updates and security in the background, but with WordPress, you're in full control. If this sounds like too much to manage, our team can help implement these measures for you.

WordPress vs. Shopify:

Shopify manages security for you but limits customization. WordPress, paired with the right plugins and hosting, offers both flexibility and security.

WordPress vs. Webflow:

Webflow is secure by design, but it doesn't have the massive library of plugins WordPress offers for added layers of protection.

WordPress vs. Custom Coding:

Custom-coded websites can be highly secure, but they require significant investment and ongoing maintenance. WordPress strikes a balance between cost, flexibility, and security.

WordPress vs. Wix:

Wix simplifies everything, but you sacrifice the advanced customizability WordPress offers.

WordPress victime d'une supply chain attack https://t.co/GYYZIgiYVM
— ☠ Bluetouff (@bluetouff) December 15, 2024

Some of the world's most impressive websites run on WordPress, from major publications to creative portfolios. Brands like The Walt Disney Company, BBC America, and TechCrunch rely on WordPress not just for design but for its ability to scale securely.

Whether you're looking for examples of the "best websites built with WordPress" or inspiration for your business, WordPress proves that great design and strong security can go hand in hand.