Introduction
Setting up your own website nowadays is a bit more challenging than ordering a pizza. However, while anyone can choose a hosting plan, CMS, and a website template, the security of your content and visitors requires close attention.
In case you are not a website developer with extensive knowledge of online security, your best shot is implementing security plugins. In this article, we’re going to let you in on options you have in store to keep your website secure.
Let’s Encrypt
We’re starting with the basics, and that’s the security of data transit from client to server and vice-versa. Let’s Encrypt is a free SSL protocol that prevents third-party entities from interfering with the data exchange and thus protects your visitor and website safety.
Security protocols, such as this one, are essential for eCommerce websites or any other platform where credit card payments are allowed. If not encrypted, your consumers' bank info would be wide open for cyber-attackers to gather and misuse. The same goes for any other information that travels between your website and visitor.
Anti-Malware Security and Brute-Force Firewall
According to a study conducted at the University of Maryland, there is at least one hack attempt every 39 seconds. These attacks include various forms of security threats like malware, ransomware, brute-force attacks, and the list goes on. Anti-Malware Security and Brute-Force Firewall is a WordPress plugin that allows you to seamlessly protect your website from all sorts of online aggressors. The software updates automatically to include the latest security measures. It also scans your core files for integrity and prevents losing access to your website in case of a brute-force attack.
Furthermore, the installation of this plugin keeps your website safe from DDoS attacks, which occur when a user is trying to load more information than your website can handle, thus preventing other visitors from accessing your page.
Wordfence
An all-in-one software solution that provides comprehensive website security for free with the added option of some premium perks. The main benefit of Wordfence is that its Firewall operates at the endpoint, which is your server. This means there is no breaking of encryption since this plugin doesn't interrupt client-to-server communication, therefore an attacker can't take advantage of your data. This software package also includes a malware protection protocol that checks your website for malicious software, potential backdoors through which an attack might occur, as well as any other form of unwanted content.
It also does an amazing job of protecting your login information and preventing intruders from getting control of your website. You can set a login attempt limit to block out any brute-force attempts. Also, there is a two-step authentication feature you can use to receive authentication requests. Finally, Wordfence can also send email notifications for events you choose like administrator login attempt or some other major event.
Conclusion
The last two decades moved our work, entertainment, and personal lives on the internet. Although this digital revolution facilitated most of our mundane tasks, it brought in new security threats that are not easy to prevent. These pieces of software provide all the security you need to make your website safe for your visitors and data.