Websites have become an integral part of running a business. While businesses have to use several resources to get their websites up and running, the process is much simpler thanks to the availability of CMS platforms such as WordPress, which make creating your business website easier. However, there are several WordPress security plugins that you must have to ensure that your websites stay running efficiently.
Below, we list the top ten WordPress security plugins you must have to ensure that your website is safe from attacks and malicious activity. Read on to learn more.
Top WordPress Security Plugins That Your Website Needs
With over 43% of websites on the web using WordPress, it is essential to keep those websites secure from attacks and cybercrime. For eCommerce business websites, this task is even more essential to ensure the safety of sensitive information. According to a study by Hiscox, more than 70% of small businesses are unprepared for cyber-attacks. Hence, below is a list of must-have WordPress Security plugins to keep your business website safe.
1. Sucuri
Sucuri is one of the best WordPress security plugins available and offers many features, such as SSL security, Malware scanning, Web Application Firewall (WAF), and security notifications. While some of these features require a paid Sucuri account, most are free.
The WAF and malware cleanup are by far the best features of Sucuri. The firewall filters any bad traffic and malicious attacks before they reach your server and their malware cleanup helps your website work efficiently even if malware sneaks its way in.
2. Wordfence
Wordfence is one of the most popular WordPress security plugins and offers a range of security tools. The essential feature of Wordfence that makes it so popular is the free scanning tool that scans all core, plugin, and theme files. The tool also scans comments and spam. Moreover, Wordfence sends regular notifications and alerts of threats.
Moreover, unlike Sucuri, which offers a WAF for paid users, Wordfence offers it in its free version. The premium version of Wordfence includes country blocking, two-factor authentication, customer support, and more.
3. iThemes
iThemes is one of the most popular WordPress security plugins for file protection. The plugin checks for the integrity, password strength, and security of the files. Moreover, the paid version of iThemes can run on two websites simultaneously and offers technical support.
However, iThemes does not offer a WAF but can detect harmful files and provide valuable information to detect attacks.
4. Defender
Defender is a relatively new plugin compared to its alternatives, but it already has more than one million users. What makes defender so popular is that it offers several features without cost, including WAF and IP blocking. Moreover, the free versions offer malware scans, alerts, and two-factor authentication.
The premium version, Defender Pro, enables the automated scan to help save time. Moreover, a Defender membership gives access to other WPMY Dev plugins.
5. Jetpack
Jetpack is an all-in-one solution that offers some of the best website security features. One of the main reasons why Jetpack is a must-have WordPress security plugin is because it offers real-time backup and one-click restore features. Moreover, Jetpack allows website owners to monitor user activity and sends alerts of any security threats. Moreover, Jetpac also offers a range of digital marketing tools.
6. All-in-One WP Security
As the name suggests, the All in One WordPress Security is a security plugin that provides everything you need to protect your business website. The ALll in One WP Security plug is all you need, from file and user monitoring to malware scanning and more.
It offers some of the best features at no and low costs, including malware scanning, comment scanning, user monitoring, WAF, and backups. Moreover, it offers a blacklist tool that can monitor and restrict users. Additionally, the plugin recognizes specific patterns and protects the website from similar attacks in the future.
7. StackPath
StackPath is one of the first WordPress security plugins that provide a secure edge platform. While it is mainly known as a Content Delivery Network (CDN), it also offers one of the best full security features for your website.
One of the best features of StackPath is that it offers seven-layer DDoS mitigations that redirect all DDoS attacks into sinkholes. Moreover, it offers basic features such as bot protection and threat detection. Additionally, it offers network-level encryption and malware defense.
8. BulletProof
BulletProof is one of the popular WordPress security plugins that offer a range of features, such as malware scans, WAF, and backups. The plugin is especially popular with beginners because it offers a one-click automatic setup wizard to help you navigate the configuration step. Once installed, the plugin starts acting automatically. Moreover, it is an economic security plugin at a one-time price, providing a greater opportunity for new businesses.
9. SiteLock
SiteLock offers a range of security features, including DDoS protection, malware, comment scans, and threat identification and blocking. It does not require much manual operation and works independently to scan plugins and files and prevent vulnerabilities. Moreover, it sends alerts and scanning reports via email regularly. Additionally, the plugin also has anti-spam and PCI compliance features, making it an excellent choice for eCommerce business websites.
10. Security Ninja
Security Ninja is one of the best plugins for beginners due to its user-friendly interface. Moreover, it includes several security features such as malware scans, file checks, password strengthening, and regular reports. The paid version runs automatically to resolve issues and implements scheduled scans, so you can rest easy knowing that your website is safe.
Choosing WordPress Security Plugins
Choosing the right WordPress security plugin can seem complicated, and you might worry about committing to one that might not work effectively. However, this is an easy problem since all plugins offer free trials or versions. While they work best, if you unlock all features, you can better understand what you are working with.
Moreover, there are several things you must consider before choosing a security plugin for your business website. Some of the things you must consider include the following:
- Avoid having the same type of plugin: try avoiding having to install two plugins that provide the same features. Adding multiple plugins can slow down the WordPress site and affect security features. Additionally, you’ll be paying extra for something you already have.
- The type of protection you need: depending on the type of business website you have, your requirements might differ. An eCommerce website requires more protection than a blog website.
- What you will spend: the base of any business is a financial analysis. Consider how much you are willing to spend and how much you can spend, and choose the best security plugins that are cost and purpose effective.
To Sum Up
Security is one of the biggest problems faced by my business. While websites offer tremendous growth, leaving a website vulnerable can also be your downfall. Hence, keeping your website safe and, by default, your business is essential. Choosing the best WordPress security plugins might seem unnecessary and tedious, but it is worthwhile when you can protect your website and clients from malicious attacks.
While you might be tempted to get an all-in-one WordPress security plugin, and there is nothing wrong with that, you must consider multiple factors before you decide. One of the factors to consider is the cost. Moreover, the security features provided might vary, and you must consider which features you must have and how much you are willing to spend.