WordPress is recognized as the most widely used Content Management System with over 72.4 million different sites all over the web as of March 2012. In an average month, 352 million people view more than 2.5 million pages on WordPress. With such a large number of users and developers, it shows that WordPress is truly a reliable blogging tool that can offer lots of wonderful features to users. While WordPress has an astounding set of features to offer such as good SEO quality, automatic filters, good security and clean permalink structure, security problems can still occur especially when you try to modify your WordPress by including plugins, adding themes and performing hack activities that could cause problems to your site. But of course, you can’t avoid doing these activities especially when you want your site to be appealing and functional. But as much as possible, you wouldn’t want it to end up being vulnerable to hacks. That is why security precautions must be done. To start with, let us try to see some factors to consider for the better security of your site: 1. Username and password. It is essential to have a strong username and password. All admin users should come up with a proper custom name. It is best to delete the default admin and create a new one. Picking a secure password also increases the security of your site. To ensure the strength of your password you can refer to WP’s password strength meter and make sure you see the green color which indicates a strong password. 2. Plugins. Plugins contribute a great deal of factor on how your WordPress operates so make sure to be very careful when it comes to installing plugins. Try installing useful plugins that could increase the security level of your site such as Antivirus plugins, online backup plugins, hide login, bulletproof plugins and security checker plugins. Make sure that your plugins are always up to date. Delete those that you do not use. 3. Updates. It is important to consistently update your site. WordPress regularly creates security fixes and other new features for your site’s better functionality. If you don’t update, you won’t be able to have the fixes and features of the latest versions. Worse, you will be making your site more vulnerable to hacks. So whether it’s your plugins, themes or your entire WordPress software, always update. 4. Secure Hosting. If you are using your site for business or brand purposes, it is understood that it is essential to invest money. It is best to find a good hosting provider that applies the needed security features and support on your blog. With paid hosting, we are talking about better features, better customization tools and more advantages. Paid hosting is surely well worth your investment. 5. Database Backup. Always be ready in case something bad really happens. Backup your database regularly so you won’t lose everything in case of a crash or a hack. There are three ways to do back up: First is doing it manually, second is paying for a backup service and third is using a plugin that does the backup. It is really important to have a backup of your entire site. Remember, better safe than sorry. For more information on how to secure your WordPress site, e-mail The Northern Office Innovative Marketing at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call us at (0)45 499 1082 today. Posted by John Joe Morgan