While plugins are commonly used to secure WordPress sites, there are effective ways to enhance security without relying on them. Here are several strategies:

Passwords are your first line of defense. Make sure all user accounts, especially admin accounts, use strong, unique passwords. A combination of letters, numbers, and special characters works best. Also, enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security. 2FA can be set up through various services like Google Authenticator.

One of the most straightforward ways to keep your site secure is by updating your WordPress version, themes, and plugins. Security vulnerabilities are frequently patched in updates, so having outdated software can expose your site to attacks. Always run the latest versions of your site’s components.

By default, WordPress allows users to try logging in as many times as they want, which can leave your site vulnerable to brute-force attacks. By limiting login attempts, you reduce the risk of unauthorized access. You can do this without plugins by editing your .htaccess file or using server-level features available from your hosting provider.

Hackers often target websites with the default "admin" username. Changing this to something unique will lower the chances of automated attacks targeting your site. You can do this by creating a new user with admin privileges and then deleting the default "admin" account.

Choosing a secure and reputable hosting provider is crucial for the safety of your site. Many hosting providers offer built-in security features like malware scanning, firewalls, and automatic backups. Make sure your host has strong security protocols and a history of protecting sites from common vulnerabilities.

Prevent unauthorized access to core WordPress files by limiting access to your wp-config.php and .htaccess files. These files contain sensitive data, including database information. You can secure them by modifying file permissions and disabling directory browsing.

To prevent directory browsing, add this line to your .htaccess file:

This simple step can help prevent hackers from viewing your site's directory structure and accessing sensitive files.

WordPress's XML-RPC function allows third-party services to interact with your website. However, it can also be exploited in brute-force attacks. If you don't use it, disable XML-RPC by adding the following line to your .htaccess file:

Order Allow,Deny Deny from all .

This will prevent malicious users from targeting your site through XML-RPC.

Ensuring the correct file permissions for your WordPress files is another important step. For example, the wp-config.php file should be set to 440 or 400 permissions, which makes it readable but not editable by unauthorized users. Adjust file permissions through your hosting provider’s control panel or via FTP to prevent unauthorized access.

While not directly preventing hacks, regular backups are crucial to ensure you can quickly restore your site if it gets compromised. Make sure you store backups in a secure location, such as an off-site cloud service, and schedule them regularly to maintain an up-to-date copy of your site.

By default, WordPress allows administrators to edit PHP files directly from the dashboard, which can be a security risk if someone gains unauthorized access to your site. You can disable this by adding the following line of code to your wp-config.php file:

define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);

This step prevents anyone from tampering with your site’s code through the admin dashboard, reducing the risk of vulnerabilities.

Securing your WordPress site without plugins is entirely possible by implementing a few key practices. From using strong passwords and securing core files to disabling unnecessary features and performing regular updates, these methods can significantly enhance your website’s security. Always stay proactive about security to minimize the risk of unauthorized access and keep your WordPress site safe.