Due to the recent events surround some websites. I want to talk to you about security for your WordPress site, and how you can prevent bad things from happening to good people.
 
First let’s talk about backing up the site you already have just in case the worst comes to worst, and someone hacks it. So, you can say f*&@ you to whomever tampers with your site, because you will have all of your info. All you need to do is install a DB Backup plugin, and it will email you a daily backup of your website. Very handy, and extremely easy. I just install it through my WordPress dashboard by going to >Plugins>Add New> and then type DB Backup select the plugin, and click install. Then find it under settings and personalize the setting you would like.
 
A couple other ways to backup your site is through your host. If your site is running on a cpanel you can set it up for weekly or daily backups to be stored on your sever, very handy as well. If it isn’t cpanel like GoDaddy, they have a 30 day calender that has your site saved each day for 30 days. I don’t like GoDaddy, but this is cool.
 
So, first we will talk about some of the simple things to do to your WordPress blog.
 
1.When creating and installing WordPress , you should create a username other than admin.If you have it already, simply delete it and make a new one.
 
2. Activate the Askimet plugin which filters spam comments. To do this all you need to do is create a WordPress account and it will give you an API key to place in your blog.
 
Now these next 3 are larger precautions.
 
3. Install Maximum Security Shield plugin. The powerful Maximum Security plugin for WordPress is packed with strong protection that makes your site extremely secure. It guards against intrusion; tracks a plethora of events; blocks malicious content that could harm your readers and your search engine ranking; and includes a strong Web application firewall along with a full blown intrusion prevention system.
 
4. Install WP Security Scan The regularly updated WP Security Scan scans your WordPress installation for security vulnerabilities and suggests corrective actions.
It checks for vulnerable passwords, file permissions, database security, it hides the WP version, WordPress admin protection/security and it removes the WP Generator META tag from the core code. Powerful plugin.
 
5. Install Secure WordPress. As the title says, Secure WordPress, helps to secure your WordPress installation by removing error information on login pages, adds index.html to the plugin directory; removes the WP-version, except in the admin area.
 
6. This doesn’t have to do with installing a plugin, but it is a good idea to update WordPress to the latest version, and also your theme to the latest version once it is past beta.
 
7. Change your FTP login if you have give it out, you never know who will become bitter and cross the line.
 
If you need help installing these features. I am available for updating, and securing your WordPress. Let’s fight crime together!

Posted on April 8th, 2010 by Rachael Butts in Web Design Phoenix

About Rachael Butts

Rachael Butts is the CEO and lead designer for Rachaelbutts.com Rachael has been designing for WordPress since 2005, and has a passion for keeping up with the latest business practices in WordPress design and development. She thoroughly enjoy sales and marketing , client management, and making website creation fun for her clients.