The easiest way for hackers to compromise a WordPress website isn’t through sophisticated attacks—it’s by exploiting weak or stolen passwords. Automated bots constantly scan the internet, attempting to log in using common passwords or credentials exposed in previous data breaches. Fortunately, two simple security measures can stop most of these attacks: strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication.
A strong password is your first line of defense. Every WordPress account should use a unique password that is at least 16 characters long and includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Never reuse passwords across multiple websites. If one account is compromised, reused passwords can give attackers access to your WordPress site as well.
Even the strongest password isn’t foolproof. That’s why enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) is one of the best security upgrades you can make. With 2FA, logging in requires both your password and a temporary verification code generated by an authentication app or sent via email or SMS. If someone steals your password, they still can’t access your website without that second verification step.
Although WordPress doesn’t natively include 2FA, there are plugins you can install for that purpose. We recommend Kadence Security plugin (which we install for our clients) for many security features including strong passwords and 2FA, but here are some other highly rated plugins:
Two Factor by WordPress.org
WP 2FA by Melapress
Once you have a security plugin with 2FA installed, you’ll have one or more options as to the exact 2FA method you can enable. The 3 methods we’ll cover here are:
- Authenticator App
- Backup Codes
Each plugin will have its own set up instructions, but if you’re using Kadence Security, follow these steps. Once you log into your WordPress website backend, click on your profile name in the top right corner, then scroll down to the Security section and click the Configure button.
You’ll then see the Setup Two-Factor screen. Click the Continue button.
Next, you’ll see the Select Methods screen.
If you choose to receive a code via a Mobile App, you’ll need to first download one such as Google Authenticator. Each app will have its own set up instructions, but you will basically pair your phone app with your WordPress user account. For example, Google Authenticator can scan a QR code on your WordPress login screen (after you enter your username and password) for easy setup. It will then give you a 2FA code to enter. Note: the code in the authenticator app will refresh regularly to keep it secure.
If you prefer not to install an app, you can opt in to receive a code by Email instead. This is usually a more straightforward option and is presented on the login screen after you enter your username and password.
Whatever option you choose, we highly recommend you also enable the Backup Codes option if available. With backup codes, you are given a list of randomly generated characters to download that can only be used one time each. It’s helpful in case there’s an issue getting the code via email or app.
Once you have 2FA set up, next time you log in, you’ll see the following screen after you enter your username and password.
Your options may differ depending on what you enabled. In the above screenshot, all three options are available.
If multiple people manage your WordPress website, every administrator should have their own account, use a unique password, and enable 2FA. Avoid sharing login credentials, and remove user accounts that are no longer needed. Good account management reduces the risk of unauthorized access and makes your website easier to secure.
Website security doesn’t have to be complicated. By using strong, unique passwords and enabling two-factor authentication for every administrator, you’ll dramatically reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Combined with regular WordPress updates and backups, these simple habits provide one of the most effective defenses against today’s most common security threats.
If you need help implementing two-factor authentication, just reach out to us.
