Security Hardening
Security Hardening is post-rescue risk reduction for WordPress. We audit access, scan for malware, enforce secure logins, verify backups, and document residual risk.
What we fortify
Security Hardening makes WordPress resilient against common attacksEvery move targets weak points that let bots, exploits, and outages slip through.
Security posture audit
We inventory plugins, themes, and hosting, run malware scans, review file permissions, and capture a baseline report before we touch production.
Malware removal and updates
We clean flagged files, patch WordPress, replace abandoned extensions, and raise PHP to a supported release with regression checks.
Authentication hardening
We enforce two factor authentication, reset weak credentials, retire shared accounts, and document the new login flow for team.
Firewall and bot control
We configure Cloudflare or plugin firewalls, apply rate limits, and block abusive user agents so automated hits stop at the edge.
Least privilege configuration
We prune unused admins, right size roles, disable file editing, and tighten server permissions to reduce entry points.
Backup and restore drill
We configure scheduled offsite backups, run a test restore to staging, and share documentation so recovery remains a button press.
Eight step cadence
Security Hardening workflow keeps hardening transparentEach pass ships async notes, approvals, and evidence so owners track progress without meetings.
| Step | Process |
|---|---|
| Step 1; Security intake and audit | We gather access, capture incidents, run malware scans, and document the current plugin and hosting posture. |
| Step 2; Cleanup and updates | We remove infections, update core, themes, and plugins, replace abandoned tools, and retest the site. |
| Step 3; Login hardening | We enforce two factor authentication, rotate credentials, and apply rate limited login paths or alternate URLs. |
| Step 4; Firewall configuration | We configure Cloudflare or plugin firewalls, block malicious traffic, and tune bot rules so legitimate users stay clear. |
| Step 5; Role and permission review | We prune unused accounts, adjust roles, disable file editors, and set safer server permissions. |
| Step 6; Backup and restore drill | We configure scheduled backups, run a restore on staging, and confirm the workflow with client. |
| Step 7; Verification and monitoring | We rerun scans, capture firewall logs, and validate SSL, cron, and health checks land in green. |
| Step 8; Report and warranty handoff | We deliver the security report, share new login procedures, and start the fourteen day warranty window. |
Proof delivered
Evidence that Security Hardening raised your security baselineWe hand over documentation so stakeholders can confirm every protection is active.
Why it works
Security Hardening relies on proven security researchWe harden WordPress using guidance from trusted security teams, authentication standards, and backup frameworks.
Security frameworks
We implement steps backed by Patchstack, Wordfence, and WPScan advisories to remove malware and block common attacks.
Authentication standards
We enforce two factor authentication, strong password policies, and login rate limiting aligned with industry best practices.
Recovery confidence
We follow backup and restore guidance from managed hosts to prove offsite copies and disaster recovery steps work.
Ready to harden your stack
Send admin credentials and current concernsWe will audit, clean, and fortify your site with Security Hardening sprint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Security HardeningHow fast can you start Security Hardening?
We start within one to two business days once we have logins and hosting access. The sprint usually wraps in three to six days unless malware cleanup reveals deeper issues.
What access do you need to secure the site?
We need WordPress admin, hosting, and DNS access to enforce logins, firewall rules, and backups. If you prefer, we can pair on calls to set credentials while you stay the account owner.
How much does Security Hardening cost?
Most sites fall between $750 and $1,500 based on cleanup effort and firewall setup. We share a fixed quote before work starts so you know spend.
Do you remove existing malware?
Yes. We scan, clean infected files, and replace abandoned plugins before locking down the stack. Post-cleanup scans and logs show the site is clear.
How do you protect logins?
We enforce two factor authentication, rotate weak passwords, and rate limit login attempts. Admins get updated steps so they can sign in without confusion.
Will you configure a firewall?
We set up Cloudflare or a WordPress firewall plugin with bot blocks and rate limits. You get screenshots and notes so you can keep rules tuned after handoff.
What happens to our backups?
We configure scheduled offsite backups and run a restore drill on staging. You receive timing details and access links so you know recovery is reliable.
Do you change user roles?
We prune unused accounts, right size roles, and disable risky editors. A short roster shows who can do what so ownership stays clear.
What proof do we get after the sprint?
You receive malware scan results, firewall and login logs, and backup restore notes. The report lists remaining risks and fourteen day warranty coverage.
Who keeps ownership of hosting and domains?
You do. We work under your accounts or pair to set changes live while you stay the owner on hosting, DNS, and any security tools.
