WordPress powers over 40% of all websites online — and that popularity makes it a target.

But the good news is this: most WordPress security breaches happen due to very basic oversights — things like weak passwords, outdated plugins, or missing security tools. And the majority of them can be prevented with just a few proactive steps.

In this post, I’ll walk you through five simple but highly effective ways to secure your WordPress site — no technical background required.

1. Use a Strong Username and Password (And Avoid “admin”)

One of the most common ways hackers break into WordPress sites is through brute force login attempts — especially when the username is “admin.”

What to do:

  • Always use a unique username (not “admin” or your domain name)

  • Use a complex password (ideally generated via a password manager)

  • Change your login URL (with a plugin like WPS Hide Login) to make it harder to guess

Bonus tip: enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for admin accounts.

2. Keep WordPress, Themes, and Plugins Updated

Outdated software is the number one reason WordPress sites get hacked.

To stay secure:

  • Regularly update WordPress core (enable auto-updates if you can)

  • Update all themes and plugins (or delete the ones you don’t use)

  • Avoid using unlicensed or nulled themes — they’re often filled with malware

Set a monthly reminder to check your site or consider a maintenance plan.

3. Install a Security Plugin (It’s Easier Than You Think)

You don’t need to understand firewalls or server logs — there are plugins that handle the heavy lifting.

Top recommended plugins:

  • Wordfence Security (free and powerful for most users)

  • iThemes Security

  • Sucuri Security

What these plugins can do:

  • Scan for malware

  • Block malicious IPs

  • Limit login attempts

  • Alert you to suspicious activity

Install, configure basic settings, and you’re already ahead of most site owners.

4. Back Up Your Website Regularly

If something does go wrong, a backup can be the difference between a quick restore or a total disaster.

Here’s how:

  • Use a plugin like UpdraftPlus, BackupBuddy, or BlogVault

  • Store backups off-site (Dropbox, Google Drive, or email)

  • Automate backups to run weekly (or daily if you update your site often)

If you’re using managed hosting, check whether they already handle backups for you — but never assume.

5. Use a Secure Hosting Provider (Don’t Go for the Cheapest Option)

Your site is only as secure as the server it runs on.

When choosing a host:

  • Look for firewalls, malware scanning, DDoS protection, and daily backups

  • Avoid hosts with poor support or outdated technology

  • If you’re unsure, choose providers like SiteGround, WP Engine, or Hostinger (great for South Africa)

Paying a little more for hosting can save you thousands in lost traffic or recovery costs.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a developer or IT expert to keep your WordPress website secure.

With strong login practices, updated plugins, a backup plan, and a solid hosting provider, you’re covering 90% of the risk.

And if you’re busy running your business, we offer managed WordPress maintenance plans that include security, backups, and ongoing updates.