23 Best WordPress Security Plugins to Safeguard Your Website

The internet is a wonderful place where you can share your ideas, sell products, and grow your business. But it can also be risky because many websites get hacked every day. Your website is crucial for your business, so keeping it safe is a must.  

Did you know there is a malware attack every 39 seconds? And on average, a WordPress site is attacked every 22 minutes. Even your local WordPress development environments need good security, so you do not create problems when you launch your site.

This is why you need strong protection with a good security plugin. We have hands-on experience that lets us provide accurate and reliable recommendations for your professional website or eCommerce store.  

In this article, we will share some of the best WordPress security plugins. We will explain what makes each one good or bad so you can choose the right one for your website.

23 Best WordPress Security Plugins to Keep Hackers Away

Your website’s security is only as strong as its foundation. Before you choose a plugin, you must understand that some security comes from your web hosting itself.

Good hosting providers often have robust server-level security, safeguarding your site without slowing it down and eliminating the need for complex plugin settings.

Here are the best WordPress security plugins and their essential features to protect your site effectively.

1. Sucuri Security – Auditing, Malware Scanner, and Security Hardening

It’s good enough for most small websites. If you want more features like faster scans or help from the support team, you can pay for a premium plan. For example, with the paid version, your site can be scanned every 12 hours. Also, you can talk to the support team anytime.

Pricing:

• A free plan is available.
• Basic Firewall: $9.99 per month
• Pro Firewall: $19.98 per month
• Basic Platform (includes cleanups, scans, firewall, CDN): $199.99 per month
• Pro Platform: $299.99 per month
• Business Platform: $499.99 per month

30-day money-back guarantee if you upgrade and don’t like it

Key Features:

• Free tool for WordPress malware removal, file monitoring, blocklist checks, and security hardening.
• An optional paid WordPress firewall plugin for DDoS protection.
• Multiple types of SSL certificates are available with paid plans.
• Instant alerts if there is a problem on your site.
• 24/7 customer support through chat, email, and tickets.
• Detailed reports and guaranteed cleanups on premium plans.

2. Wordfence Security

Protect logins with two-factor authentication and brute-force defense. Get insights into live traffic, bots, and hacking attempts.  If you want extra features or faster support, you can upgrade.

For developers managing many sites, discounted licenses make it even more appealing. If you’re looking for a reliable WordPress firewall plugin, Wordfence is a top choice.

Pricing:

• Free plan available
• Premium Plan: $99/year for 1 site

Key Features:

• Malware scanning for all files (not just WordPress files).
• Real-time WordPress firewall plugin with blocking rules.
• Country blocking and manual blocking tools.
• Comment spam filter (no need for extra plugins).
• Advanced malware scanning for WordPress malware removal plugins.
• Brute-force login protection.
• Live traffic monitoring for WordPress website security.
• Developer-friendly with multi-site license discounts.

3. MalCare Security

Enjoy one-click malware cleanup, login protection, bot blocking, and real-time firewall updates. It's trusted by WordPress security experts everywhere. Whether you run one site or manage many, it’s one of the best WordPress security plugins for staying safe without slowing down your site.

Pricing:

Free plan available (includes malware scanning, firewall, and bot detection)

Premium Plans:

• Basic: $99/year
• Plus: $149/year
• Pro: $299/year

Add-ons available:

• Real-time backups: $100 per site/year
• Hourly backups and scans: $500 per site/year
• Visual regression testing: $100 per site/year
• Additional Premium Staging Environments: $20 per month/per environment (prorated)

Key Features:

• Cloud-based malware scanning for complete site protection.
• Bot protection and blocking features.
• Intelligent plugin monitoring system.
• Login protection with IP blocking and captcha technology.
• One-click malware removal.
• Uptime monitoring and instant attack notifications.
• Protection from unique threats (favicon hacks, cookie stealing, Google blocklist).
• Ability to view and instantly remove hacked files.

4. All In One WP Security & Firewall

The plugin organizes its features into three categories: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. It’s perfect for beginners and more experienced developers. The plugin protects user accounts and prevents brute force attacks.  

For anyone seeking a flexible security plugin for WordPress that balances power with ease of use, this is an excellent choice.

Pricing:

• Free (No hidden costs or upsells)

Key Features:

• Blocklist tool to block specific users.
• Backup and restore tools for .htaccess and .wp-config files.
• Visual graphs to show your site’s security strength and problem areas.
• Temporary lockdown button for emergencies.
• Ability to export and import security settings.
• Blocks other sites from displaying your content via iframes.
• Hides website info from bots and other intruders.
• No upsells, completely free to use.

5. BulletProof Security

The plugin is suitable for advanced developers, but it also has an easy setup wizard for novices. Its ability to lock FTP files and detect intrusion is unique. The free plugin has lots of necessary features, and the paid version includes even more advanced functionality.

Pricing:

• Free plan available
• Premium version: $69.95 (one-time payment) with a 30-day money-back guarantee

Key Features:

• Login security and monitoring.
• Database backups and restore options
• MScan Malware Scanner.
• Anti-spam and anti-hacking tools.
• Security log and hidden plugin folders.
• Maintenance mode functionality.
• Auto-fix setup wizard.
• Advanced security features like Intrusion Detection and Prevention System (IDPS).

6. SecuPress Free – WordPress Security

It has anti-brute force login protection, blocked IPs, and a firewall in the free version. It also performs scans for suspicious behavior and blocks intruders. The premium version features more, such as security alerts, two-factor authentication, and geolocation-based IP blocking. 

SecuPress is a good option if you want a straightforward, effective security solution for your website.

Pricing:

• Free version available (includes basic security features)
• Premium version: $69.99/year (per site)

Additional services:

• Professional configuration: $120
• Malware removal: $360
• WordPress security training: $449
• Security maintenance: $39

Key Features:

• Easy-to-use interface, ideal for beginners
• 35 security scans to protect your site
• Premium features include security notifications, malware scanning, and IP geolocation blocking.
• Ability to modify your WordPress login URL to prevent bot attacks.
• Identifies vulnerable or hacked themes and plugins.
• Creates and saves security reports in PDF format.

7. WPScan – WordPress Security Scanner

This is the best security plugin for WordPress that knows what attackers see. WPScan offers peace of mind with alerts and suggestions. If you need the best security plugin for WordPress that knows what attackers see, WPScan is for you.

Pricing:

• Free plan: 25 API requests per day

Premium plans:

• Start: $5/month
• Professional: $25/month
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

Key Features:

• Regular scans for vulnerabilities in core, plugins, and themes.
• Email notifications for discovered vulnerabilities.
• Options to schedule scans.
• Alerting on weak passwords with a request to update them.
• Downloadable reports with vulnerability information.
• Offers links and instructions to resolve security problems.
• Security scanner emulates hacker attacks.
• Reward scheme for reporting vulnerabilities.

8. Security Ninja

You are able to block nasty IPs, prevent brute-force attacks, and scan for malware.  If you prefer detailed reports and need robust site protection, Security Ninja is an excellent WordPress plugin to choose.

Pricing:

• Free plan available

Premium plans:

• Starter: $49.99/year
• Plus: $149.97/year
• Pro: $199.99/year
• Agency: $249.99/year
• Monthly plan: Starting at $8.99/month
• Lifetime packages: Starting at $139.99 (one-time payment)

Key Features:

• 50+ security tests in the free version.
• Auto-fix tool for quick issue resolution.
• Scan WordPress core files for integrity.
• Check plugins and themes for malware.
• Block known bad IPs automatically.
• Event logging for site activity.
• Schedule regular scans.
• Database optimization for faster performance.
• In-depth security tests in premium versions, including XSS protection and unwanted files detection.

9. Security & Malware Scan by CleanTalk

This best WordPress security plugin also provides trustworthy WordPress malware removal. With you receiving daily reports and real-time monitoring, you have peace of mind. 

It's an intelligent solution for simple, efficient WordPress website security that won't bog your server down. Secure your site with automated scans and robust firewall protection.

Pricing:

• 1 website: $9/year
• 3 websites: $24/year
• 5 websites: $36/year
• 10 websites: $63/year
• 20 websites: $117/year
• 40 websites: $180/year
• Unlimited websites: $18/month

Key Features:

• Cloud-based malware scanning with no server load.
• Daily security reports and real-time traffic monitoring.
• Automatic outbound link checks.
• Scans run daily and are stored on the cloud.
• Non-coders can send files for CleanTalk support to fix.
• Login security with brute force protection and IP/country blocking.
• Email alerts for detected threats.

10. Jetpack – WP Security, Backup, Speed, & Growth

It's great for anyone wanting WP security plugins that do more than just security. The free plan covers spam protection and basic security, while premium plans offer more advanced security features.

Pricing:

• Free: Includes spam protection and basic security features.
• Backup plan: $9/month
• Security & scanning: $24.92/month
• Discounts: Frequent 50% off offers available

Key Features:

• Brute force protection is included in the free plan.
• Premium plans offer real-time malware scanning and backups.
• Plugin updates and security management in one place.
• The suite includes tools for email marketing, social media, and optimization.
• Free content delivery network (CDN) to speed up your site.
• Downtime monitoring for proactive issue resolution.

11. Astra Security Suite

You get real-time firewall protection and malware cleanup. Astra scans daily and sends detailed email reports. It stops spam, bots, and bad logins. 

Many WordPress security experts recommend it for solid protection. It also blocks malicious uploads and offers a security audit. If you want WordPress website security you can trust, Astra is a smart choice. 

Pricing:

• Pro: Starting at $19/month
• Advanced: $39/month
• Business: $119/month

Key Features:

• Blocks 100+ cyber threats, including SQLi, XSS, and brute force.
• Automatic malware cleanup and real-time hack fixes.
• Daily reports on security activity and blocked attacks.
• Spam protection for comments and SEO spam.
• Bot tracking and malicious file upload blocking.
• Access to a bounty management platform for vulnerability reports.

12. Stop Spammers Security 

Create custom rules to control who can visit or add Captcha on login pages for extra safety. It also has a members-only mode for private content. Many see it as one of the best security plugins for WordPress. 

For strong WordPress website security, it keeps spam away while protecting logins and forms.

Pricing:

• Free version for basic spam protection
• Premium version: Starting at $29/year

Key Features:

• Blocks spam in comments, forms, and login pages.
• Allows blocking by country, user, or suspicious behavior.
• Premium features include server-level firewall and brute-force protection.
• Supports Contact Form 7 and advanced login protection.
• Customizable settings for managing blocked users.
• Notification control and export logs.

13. Titan Anti-spam & Security

Premium plans provide additional scanning power. Many say it is the best free WordPress anti-spam plugin for preventing spam. 

Titan assists with WordPress plugin security as well. It operates quietly in the background, learning and getting better. It's trusted WordPress website security for anyone who wishes to have peace of mind.

Pricing:

• Free version with basic spam protection
• Premium plans: Starting at $55/year for 1 site

Key Features:

• Self-learning spam tool for continuous protection
• Firewall rules and malware scanning
• Real-time IP blocking and attack logs
• Customizable spam blocking for comments and forms.
• Scan up to 6000 signatures with the premium version.
• Easy-to-read spam statistics and dashboard.

14. Hide My WP Ghost – Security Plugin

It prevents real-time attacks such as SQL injection and XSS by concealing your WordPress files. Hide My WP secures your login page and plugin folders as well. It's intended to render your site less identifiable for attackers by altering URLs, concealing admin paths, and renaming files.

In case you are searching for a WordPress firewall plugin that makes your site more difficult to identify, Hide My WP Ghost is a good choice.

Pricing:

• Available for a one-time fee of $24
• Continued support costs an additional $17

Key Features:

• Hides themes, plugins, admin paths, and login URLs.
• Protects against SQL injections and XSS attacks.
• Includes a “trust network” that blocks bad traffic.
• Notifies you of potential attacks with details on the attacker.
• Works with multisite, Apache, Nginx, and premium themes.
• Easy installation with pre-made settings.

15. WP Hide & Security Enhancer

It’s easy to set up and works with most servers. The free version offers strong protection for basic sites. Premium plans add support for complex setups. It works well with different server types, including Apache, Nginx, and IIS. 

If you’re looking to secure your WordPress site by hiding your plugin folders and login paths, WP Hide is a simple and effective solution.

Pricing:

• Free version with essential hiding features

Premium plans:

• Single Site: $39/year
• Developer: $130/year

Key Features:

• Hides core files, plugins, and themes.
• Changes login URLs and admin paths.
• URL rewrite methods keep the site structure intact.
• Easy setup with minimal configuration.
• Works with multisite configurations.
• Compatible with Apache, Nginx, and IIS.

16. WP fail2ban – Logging for Brute Force Attacks

The plugin offers soft or hard bans for blocking attackers. It also features multisite support, login filtering, and integration with Cloudflare. WP fail2ban helps block spam, pingbacks, and malicious comments. 

It provides detailed logs of suspicious activities, making it easy to track and block attacks. For those seeking advanced WordPress security plugins that focus on login security, WP fail2ban offers a reliable solution.

Pricing:

Free

Key Features:

• Logs all login attempts, whether successful or not.
• Offers soft or hard bans for better protection.
• Integrates with Cloudflare and proxy servers.
• Tracks spam, pingbacks, and user enumeration.
• Provides a dashboard to monitor blocked threats.
• Supports multisite and API integrations.

17. VaultPress (Now part of Jetpack Backup)

The clean dashboard makes WordPress website security simple. It also scans for threats and shows your site's security history. Plans start at $9.95 monthly. This security plugin for WordPress includes spam protection and malware scanning in higher tiers. Built by Automattic, it’s trusted by many WordPress security experts.

Pricing:

• Starts at $9.95/month
• Security Package: $24.95/month
• Complete Package: $99.95/month

Key Features:

• Simple backup scheduling with a calendar.
• Instant one-click restores.
• Incremental backups for better performance.
• Threat monitoring with a history of actions taken.
• 10GB backup storage and 30-day activity logs.

18. Shield Security – Smart & Proactive WordPress Protection

This plugin is great for both beginners and advanced users. The free version offers core protection, while the Pro version provides deeper scans and 24/7 support. 

It’s one of the best wp security plugins for anyone wanting solid WordPress website security with less hassle and more automation to keep your site safe 24/7. It features two-factor authentication, firewall rules, brute-force protection, and restricted settings for enhanced security.

Pricing:

• Free version available
• Shield Pro: $12/month
• Shield Pro Agency: $60/month

Key Features:

• Automatically repairs hacked sitesbest WordPress firewall plugin.
• Intelligent background protection without notifications.
• Supports three types of free two-factor authentication.
• Offers more frequent scans with Shield Pro.
• Brute force and firewall protection.
• User access management and restricted settings.

19. Anti-Malware Security and Brute-Force Firewall

The premium version offers more powerful tools, such as advanced patching and core file checking. The plugin runs scans automatically and removes threats without your intervention. 

It is simple to use, with options for manual and automated scans. It’s a smart pick for those who want strong, simple WordPress website security without paying much, making it one of the most reliable WP security plugins available.

Pricing:

• Free plugin for basic scans and firewall protection
• Premium features are available for donations

Key Features:

• Automatic malware and backdoor removal.
• Protects against SQL injections and DDoS attacks.
• Allows core file checking and patching.
• Includes firewall protection for vulnerable plugins.
• Scans and fixes issues with one click.
• Download new threat definitions.

20. WP Activity Log – Audit Logging for WordPress

This helps you monitor your site for suspicious behavior. It also logs custom fields, tags, and categories. The plugin works in real-time, keeping you informed about all changes. 

The premium version lets you track logged-in users and see what they are doing. It’s perfect for managing users and keeping an eye on potential threats, especially for site administrators and teams.

Pricing:

• Free version with basic activity logging

Premium Plan:

• Starter: $99/year
• Professional: $139/year
• Business: $149/year
• Enterprise: $199/year

Key Features:

• Tracks all actions, including user changes and plugin updates.
• Monitors user activity and logs details like IP and timestamp.
• Tracks custom post types, widgets, and database changes.
• View logged-in users and their activities in real-time.
• Alerts and user management with premium features.

21. Really Simple SSL – SSL Certificate Plugin

The plugin is ideal for beginners who might not have technical knowledge. It removes the complexity of SSL setup by handling everything for you. It’s trusted by WordPress security experts who want fast, secure results without messing around in code. Even beginners can lock down their site in minutes with this handy tool.

Pricing:

• Free version available
• Personal: $29/year
• Professional: $69/year
• Agency: $169/year

Key Features:

• One-click SSL installer.
• SSL certificate scan for existing secure connections.
• Fixes mixed content issues with the premium plan.
• Implements advanced security headers instantly.
• Provides security tips via your dashboard.

22. Cloudflare (via integration or official plugin)

Cloudflare’s powerful firewall blocks malware and defends against DDoS attacks. It also includes the best CDN (Content Delivery Network), which caches content globally, speeding up page loads.  

Many call it one of the best WordPress firewall plugins for serious security. Bloggers, shops, and big sites use Cloudflare to stay safe. If you want the best security for WordPress with a simple setup and global power, Cloudflare is a top choice.

Pricing:

• Free: Basic DDoS protection, CDN, SSL
• Pro: $20/month (Enhanced security, image optimization, analytics)
• Business: $200/month (Advanced firewall, custom SSL, prioritized support)
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

Key Features:

• Global CDN speeds up page loads.
• DDoS protection and bot management.
• Image and content optimization.
• Automatic HTTPS with SSL/TLS management.
• Fast DNS resolution and browser integrity checks.

23. iThemes Security (formerly Better WP Security)

Unlike some competitors, it doesn't scan for malware on your site, only checking if it's blacklisted by Google. While it doesn’t do deep WordPress malware removal plugins style scanning, it checks if you're blacklisted. 

For better WordPress website security, iThemes makes safety simple without slowing your site or confusing you with tech talk. 

Pricing:

• Free: Basic security features
• Pro: $99/year per site

Key Features:

• Brute force protection with lockouts.
• Two-factor authentication (2FA).
• File-change detection and database backups.
• Ability to change the default login URL.
• Google reCAPTCHA support.
• Security logs and user action tracking.
• Scheduled malware scans (Google blacklist checks).

A Smart First Step Toward WordPress Security

Setting up the best WordPress security plugins is a strong first step to keeping your website safe. It helps protect you, your team, and most importantly, your visitors and customers.

But security does not stop there. Hackers often target WordPress because many users ignore important safety steps. Don’t wait for something to go wrong. It is a good idea to hire WordPress developers who can help you build stronger protection and handle issues before they become big problems.

Beyond installing plugins, ask your developer team to keep an eye on updates and support tasks your site might need. Ongoing care will keep your website secure, reliable, and ready to grow.