Website security should be a top priority for any WordPress site owner. One often overlooked, yet critical, step in fortifying your site is changing the default admin URL. By doing so, you can significantly reduce the risk of cyber-attacks and keep your website safe. Here’s why this change is essential and how you can easily implement it:
Why Change Your Admin URL?
- Prevent Brute Force Attacks: The default admin URL for WordPress is example.com/wp-admin. This is common knowledge, even to hackers. By changing this URL, you make it more challenging for attackers to find the login page and launch brute force attacks.
- Reduce Unauthorized Access: With a unique admin URL, you add an extra layer of security, making it harder for unauthorized users to gain access to your admin area.
- Protect Sensitive Information: By hiding the default admin URL, you protect sensitive information from being exposed to anyone malicious.
- Enhance Site Security: Coupled with other security measures like strong passwords and two-factor authentication, changing your admin URL can enhance the overall security of your WordPress site.
How to Change Your Admin URL
Changing your WordPress admin URL is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Backup Your Site
Before making any changes, it’s crucial to backup your website. Use a reliable backup plugin to ensure you can restore your site if anything goes wrong. If you are a ThemeSupport hosting customer, we automatically back up your site each day, so you can be sure you have a back up of the latest version of your site.
Step 2: Install a Plugin
There are several plugins available that make changing your admin URL simple and hassle-free. Here’s how to do it with one of the popular plugins, WPS Hide Login:
- Install and Activate the Plugin:
- Go to your WordPress dashboard.
- Navigate to Plugins > Add New.
- Search for “WPS Hide Login” and click Install Now.
- After installation, click Activate.
- Configure the Plugin:
- Once activated, go to Settings > WPS Hide Login.
- In the Login URL field, enter your new admin URL. For example, you might use something like example.com/new-login.
- Save your changes.
- Test the New URL:
- Log out of your WordPress site.
- Try accessing the admin area using the new URL you’ve set. Ensure it redirects you correctly and that you can log in without issues.
Step 3: Update Bookmarks and Links
Ensure you update any bookmarks or links to the old admin URL with the new one. Inform your team or anyone with admin access about the change.
Conclusion
Changing your WordPress admin URL is a simple yet effective way to enhance your website’s security. By taking this step, you make it harder for hackers to target your site, reducing the risk of brute force attacks and unauthorized access. Combined with other security practices, this change helps safeguard your digital presence. If you need any additional help changing your admin URL, please contact us and we’re happy to help!
