9 Best WordPress Security Plugins in 2024

Securing your WordPress site is essential in a digital world of increasing cyber threats. WordPress offers great flexibility, but without the right protection, your site can be vulnerable to malware, hacks and SEO spam. Website owners can protect their online platforms from cyber threats if they take proactive measures with security plugins. 

Security plugins help safeguard your data, maintain your website’s stability, and protect visitors’ information. However, choosing the wrong plugin causes more harm than good. It’s important to research plugin features, reputation, and compatibility with your website. It can also put your visitors’ personal information at risk. In this blog, we highlight the top 9 WordPress security plugins of 2025. Let us start looking at our comprehensive list of the best WordPress Security Plugins.

1. WPScan

Free and Premium Options

WPScan offers a free plan suitable for most WordPress websites. It allows up to 25 API requests per day, which covers vulnerability checks for the core, plugins, and themes.

Paid plans are available for users who need more API calls or commercial use, with advanced features.

User Interface and Ease of Use

WPScan is designed for both beginners and professionals. The plugin integrates into the WordPress dashboard easily. Its setup is straightforward, requiring only an API token, and its admin toolbar icon provides quick access to security insights. The interface is clean, with actionable notifications and easy-to-understand reports, making it approachable for users of all skill levels.

Core Security Features

WPScan is a powerful tool designed to find security issues in WordPress websites. Here’s what it does:

• It uses one of the largest, hand-picked databases of WordPress vulnerabilities.
  
• It scans for known problems in WordPress core, plugins, and themes.
  
• It checks for common risks like exposed debug logs, weak passwords, and unsafe configuration files.
  
• It runs automated daily scans and sends email alerts for any new threats.
  
• It looks for misconfigurations such as enabled XML-RPC or default secret keys.
  
• It shows a summary of issues right in the WordPress admin toolbar.
  

Because WPScan focuses on security intelligence, it helps website owners stay ahead of threats and manage security proactively.  

2. iThemes Security  

Free and Premium Options

iThemes Security provides a free version with essential protections and a premium upgrade for advanced features like scheduled malware scanning, two-factor authentication, and priority support. The Pro version also includes Magic Links for passwordless login and additional automation tools.

User Interface and Ease of Use

The plugin is praised for its simple, guided setup process and easy-to-navigate dashboard. Features are organized into modules, allowing users to enable or disable protections as needed.

Core Security Features

iThemes Security is a robust WordPress security plugin with multiple layers of protection. Here’s what it offers:

Provides detailed security logs to track any issues.

• Brute force protection to prevent unauthorized login attempts.
  
• File change detection to monitor for suspicious activity.
  
• Two-factor authentication and strong password enforcement for secure logins.
  
• Database backups protect important data.
  
• Monitors for unauthorized changes and locks out suspicious users.
  

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

Free and Premium Options

Sucuri Security offers a free plugin with essential features like security hardening, malware scanning, and core integrity checks. The paid version, starting at $199.99/year, adds advanced protection with a Web Application Firewall (WAF), CDN, and incident response, including malware cleanup by experts.

User Interface and Ease of Use

The Sucuri dashboard is clean and straightforward, focusing on actionable alerts and clear status indicators. The plugin is easy to set up, with most features available out of the box. Users can quickly access scan results, hardening recommendations, and audit logs, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced site owners.

Core Security Features

Sucuri Security offers a complete security solution for WordPress with both proactive and reactive protection. Here’s what it includes:

• File integrity monitoring and malware scanning to detect threats.
  
• Blacklist monitoring and security activity auditing to track potential risks.
  
• Post-hack tools to help recover from attacks.
  
• Email alerts for suspicious activity to keep you informed.
  
• Security hardening options to minimize attack surfaces.
  
• Premium Web Application Firewall (WAF) to block brute force, DDoS, and automated attacks.

CDN to improve site performance and speed.

4. All-In-One Security  

Free and Premium Options

All-In-One Security (AIOS) is primarily free, offering a comprehensive suite of security tools without requiring payment for core features. Premium upgrades are available for advanced firewall rules, scheduled malware scanning, and enhanced support.

User Interface and Ease of Use

AIOS is well-regarded for its beginner-friendly, intuitive interface. The plugin organizes features into logical categories, provides clear explanations for each setting, and includes helpful security grading to guide users in improving their site’s safety. Reports and alerts are straightforward, making it accessible for users of all experience levels.

Core Security Features

AIOS (All-In-One Security) offers a wide range of features to protect WordPress websites. Here’s what it includes:

• Regular updates to guard against the latest vulnerabilities.
• Log in lockdown to stop brute force attacks.
• User account monitoring and file integrity checks.
• Basic firewall rules and spam protection for added safety.
• Database security protects sensitive information.
• Enforces strong passwords and tracks failed login attempts.
• Security hardening tools to close common loopholes.
  

AIOS’ Key Features  

AIOS stands out as one of the top WordPress security plugins due to its impressive array of key features. When it comes to WP security, having a reliable and powerful ally is crucial, and AIOS delivers just that. One of its noteworthy features is the protection against login security threats. AIOS provides a strong defence against attackers. It stops them from gaining unauthorized access to your WordPress website. It does this by limiting login attempts and automatically logging out questionable users.  

5. Jetpack Protect  

Free and Premium Options

Jetpack Protect offers a robust free plan with daily vulnerability scans powered by the WPScan database. Upgrading unlocks premium features such as malware scanning, one-click fixes, instant threat notifications, and a Web Application Firewall (WAF) for around-the-clock automated protection.

User Interface and Ease of Use

Jetpack Protect is designed for simplicity and accessibility. Setup is quick, requiring just a few clicks, and no configuration is needed for basic scanning. The dashboard presents scan results and security alerts in a clear, actionable format, making it easy for beginners and experienced users alike to monitor and respond to threats.

Core Security Features

Jetpack Protect is a WordPress security plugin that offers solid protection using a large vulnerability database. Here’s what it provides:

• Shield your site from malware, hacks, and common WordPress security risks.
  
• Daily scans for vulnerabilities in WordPress core, plugins, and themes.
  
• Premium features like automated malware scanning and instant threat alerts.
  
• Web Application Firewall (WAF) to block harmful traffic.
  
• File integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes.
  
• Developed by Automattic, ensuring trusted and up-to-date threat protection.
  

Jetpack’s Key Features  

Jetpack is a comprehensive solution for security needs in WordPress. It offers a range of critical features that make it stand out from other security plugins. One of its noteworthy features is protection against brute force attacks. While many security plugins offer this feature, Jetpack stands apart. It provides it in its free version. This means users without a premium subscription can benefit from the added Security. It guards against hackers trying to guess login credentials. It prevents unauthorized access to their WordPress sites.  

6. BulletProof Security  

Free and Premium Options

Bulletproof Security offers a free version with essential security hardening features, focusing on .htaccess protection and login security. The Pro version, available for a one-time fee, adds advanced features such as real-time file monitoring, database backups, and additional firewall layers.

User Interface and Ease of Use

Bulletproof Security is more technical compared to other plugins, with an interface that may seem complex to beginners. The dashboard is functional but less visually polished, presenting settings and logs in a straightforward, utilitarian manner. While the initial setup wizard helps automate basic configuration, users with a limited technical background may need to consult documentation or support for advanced features. The plugin is best suited for users comfortable with WordPress file structures and security concepts.

Core Security Features

Bulletproof Security focuses on .htaccess-based protection, securing your WordPress site at the server level. Here’s what it includes:

• Designed to harden both WordPress and the server environment for full-site defence.
  
• Custom rules to block malicious requests and prevent directory browsing.
  
• Protection for sensitive files like wp-config.php and .htaccess itself.
  
• Login monitoring and brute force attack prevention.
  
• Maintenance mode and database backup options.
  
• The Pro version offers real-time file monitoring, scheduled backups, and a stronger firewall.
  

BulletProof Security’s Key Features  

BulletProof Security offers a range of advanced security tools. This sets it apart from other options on the market. The BPS Pro ARQ Intrusion Detection and Prevention System (ARQ IDPS) has one standout feature. It provides robust encryption solutions to protect your website from unauthorized access. This feature adds an extra layer of Security. It gives you peace of mind, knowing that your website is well-protected. 

7. SecuPress  

Free and Premium Options

Sucuri Security offers a free plugin with essential features like security hardening, malware scanning, and core integrity checks. The paid version, starting at $199.99/year, adds advanced protection with a Web Application Firewall (WAF), CDN, and incident response, including malware cleanup by experts.

User Interface and Ease of Use

The Sucuri dashboard is clean and straightforward, focusing on actionable alerts and clear status indicators. The plugin is easy to set up, with most features available out of the box. Users can quickly access scan results, hardening recommendations, and audit logs, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced site owners.

Core Security Features

Sucuri Security offers a complete security solution for WordPress with both proactive and reactive protection. Here’s what it includes:

• CDN to improve site performance and speed.
  
• File integrity monitoring and malware scanning to detect threats.
  
• Blacklist monitoring and security activity auditing to track potential risks.
  
• Post-hack tools to help recover from attacks.
  
• Email alerts for suspicious activity to keep you informed.
  
• Security hardening options to minimize attack surfaces.
  
• Premium Web Application Firewall (WAF) to block brute force, DDoS, and automated attacks.
  

SecuPress’ Key Features  

SecuPress offers a user interface that is undoubtedly one of the best in the industry. Its clean and intuitive design makes it extremely easy to navigate. It’s an excellent choice for both experienced users and beginners. You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert. Use SecuPress to protect your website effectively.  

One of the standout features of SecuPress is its extensive range of security checks. The plugin conducts 35 security checks. It ensures that every aspect of your website’s Security is thoroughly examined. SecuPress leaves no stone unturned when identifying potential vulnerabilities. It checks for vulnerable themes, plugins, and backdoor access points.  

The premium version of SecuPress offers additional valuable features. It takes its offerings up a notch. Users receive immediate security alerts if their website detects suspicious activity or potential threats. Additionally, SecuPress offers a comprehensive malware scan. It scans your whole website for any malicious code or files. Another noteworthy feature is the ability to block specific countries through geolocation. This enhances your website’s Security even further.  

8. Security Ninja  

Free and Premium Options

Security Ninja provides a robust free version with over 50 security tests and basic hardening features. 

The premium version, available via annual or monthly subscription, adds advanced capabilities like a firewall, malware scanning, scheduled security scans, event logging, and automatic fixes for certain issues

User Interface and Ease of Use

Security Ninja is known for its intuitive, user-friendly design. The dashboard is well-organized, provides clear explanations of each security test and recommended actions. Even users with limited technical knowledge can use the plugin, run tests, and interpret results without confusion.

Core Security Features

Security Ninja is a WordPress plugin that runs over 50 in-depth security checks to keep your site safe. Here’s what it offers:

• It’s built to run smoothly without affecting your website’s speed.
  
• It tests for file permission issues, database security, and plugin vulnerabilities.
  
• It includes a malware scanner and, in the premium version, a firewall for extra protection.
  
• It defends against brute force attacks and detects threats in real time.
  
• Features like login protection, IP blocking, and two-factor authentication (2FA) add extra layers of security.
  
• Automated scans and timely alerts help fix problems before hackers can take advantage.
  
• The plugin focuses on prevention by spotting and solving issues early.
  

Security Ninja’s Key Features  

Security Ninja is an excellent choice for ensuring the Security of your WordPress website. One standout feature is the security tester module. It performs over 50 comprehensive security tests across your entire site. This module helps uncover any vulnerabilities or weaknesses that may exist. It allows you to take action proactively and strengthen your website’s defences. The best part is that this feature is available in the accessible version of Security Ninja so that all users can access it.  

Another impressive feature of Security Ninja is the auto-fixer module. This module is helpful for those who need to be more technically proficient in handling website security issues. If the security tester module detects any problems, the auto fixer automatically resolves them. This saves you time and effort. This feature ensures that even if you are not tech-savvy, you can still effectively maintain a secure website.

9. Wordfence  

Free and Premium Options

Wordfence offers a free version with malware scanning, firewall protection, and login security.

The premium plan ($119/year) adds real-time firewall rules, real-time malware signatures, country blocking, and premium support. 

User Interface and Ease of Use

Wordfence features a comprehensive yet user-friendly dashboard that displays security status, scan results, and actionable alerts. The interface is suitable for beginners and advanced users, with clear navigation and detailed explanations for each feature. 

Core Security Features

Wordfence is a comprehensive security plugin for WordPress with powerful features to protect your site. Here’s what it includes:

• Premium users enjoy real-time updates and advanced blocking for maximum protection.
  
• Endpoint firewall and malware scanner to block threats.
  
• Strong login security with two-factor authentication and reCAPTCHA.
  
• Scheduled scans and file change detection to spot any suspicious activity.
  
• Brute force protection, rate limiting, and vulnerability monitoring for plugins and themes.
  
• Intrusion alerts and detailed traffic analytics to help you stay informed.
  

WpScan’s Key Features  

WPScan is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enhance their website’s Security. One of its standout features is its vulnerability database, which is constantly updated. This means it can provide accurate, up-to-date information about potential vulnerabilities on your website. This feature allows you to stay one step ahead of potential hackers. It also ensures that your website remains secure.  

WPScan has another impressive feature. It can run regular scans on various aspects of your website. It checks core files and debugs. They check logfiles, database files, and more to ensure Security. They leave no stone unturned. The ability to schedule scans at specific times adds convenience. You can set up regular scans without having to initiate them each time manually. Additionally, receiving email notifications when vulnerabilities are discovered allows you to stay informed. You can take immediate action if needed. 

Basics You Should Know Before Finding Any Security WordPress Security Plugin.  

WordPress is a widely popular content management system. It has some basic security measures. These include password encryption and limited login attempts. However, it can always benefit from extra protection from security plugins. Some basic steps you should take before installing plugins: 

1. Outdated software is a leading cause of hacks. Always ensure your WordPress core, themes and default plugins are up to date for maximum plugin productivity.
   
2. Weak passwords are easy to target. Replace weak passwords with strong ones. Choose plugins that support strong passwords only and enable two-factor authentication.
   
3. Remove any plugins or themes you’re not using. Inactive components still exploit your security and can cause vulnerabilities.
   
4. A good security plugin should include a WordPress-specific firewall to block malicious traffic before it reaches your site.
   
5. Ensure the plugin offers scheduled and on-demand malware scans to detect and alert you about suspicious codes or files. 
   
6. Plugins should have features like login attempt limits, CAPTCHA, and user activity monitoring. These features prevent brute-force attacks and unauthorized access. 
   
7. These plugins should monitor your site’s files for unauthorized changes to indicate a hack or malware infection. 
   
8. Some security plugins slow down your site, especially if they run heavy scans on your server. Look for plugins optimized for performance or those that offload scanning to external servers.
   
   

Understanding these basics will help you select a security plugin that fits your needs and keeps your WordPress site safe and efficient.

Are There Any WordPress Security Plugins That Work For Free?  

There are multiple WordPress Security Plugins that provide free security services. Here are the top 3 free WordPress Security plugins you need to know: 

1. Sucuri Security

Sucuri provides website monitoring and scanning services. It detects any suspicious activity or malware on your site.

Sucuri Security Features:

• Monitor File Integrity
• Monitor Blacklist
• Analyze Security Notifications 

The plugin helps protect your site from hacks, DDoS attacks, and other standard security vulnerabilities.  

2. MalCare Security

MalCare scans your website daily and notifies you of malware or vulnerabilities. It also provides brute force protection and an activity log.

MalCare Security Features:

• Daily Automatic Malware Scans
• Vulnerability Scanner
• Brute Force Protection
• Activity Log for Site Changes

MalCare is ideal for sites with limited server resources, as it performs scans externally and provides alerts for suspicious activity.

3. SolidWP (formerly iThemes Security)

SolidWP focuses on hardening your site, monitoring for unauthorized changes, and enforcing strong login security.

SolidWP Security Features:

• File Integrity Checks
• Brute Force Protection
• Two-Factor Authentication
• Magic Link Secure Login
• CAPTCHA Integration

SolidWP is an all-in-one solution that also helps with regular backups and version management for added peace of mind.

As mentioned earlier, the plugins offer valuable free security features. They also have pro versions available for purchase. The pro versions provide more advanced protection options. However, the free versions of these plugins still offer substantial security measures. They can significantly improve the safety of your WordPress website. You don’t need to invest any money.  

Does adding a security plugin will slow down my website?  

These plugins are crucial for safeguarding your site from potential threats and attacks. However, they also reduce the site’s performance and user experience. Here’s how: 

• As multiple plugins add an extra layer of complexity and functionality, they often affect loading time. Some plugins are poorly optmized and server load, slowing down the site speed. Therefore, it is essential to carefully assess each plugin’s performance implications before installing it.
  
• Plugins such as Wordfence security, All-in-one WP Security, etc., run constantly in the background to scan vulnerabilities and consume more server resources, potentially affecting the site’s performance.
  
• Some plugins affect the backend more than the frontend user experience, which slows down the dashboard without impacting public-facing pages. As they often scan files, monitor user activity and generate security reports in the background, they largely affect backend performance.

Final Thoughts

Despite the potential security threats, you should not compromise website’s and your users’ data. That’s why it is crucial for your website to choose security plugins to maintain security measures with optimal site performance. 

If you’re looking to handle security, speed, and regular updates for your sites without headache? Stellites Technologies offers an all-in-one white-label WordPress care plan. 

Grab it today by contact us!

FAQs (Frequently asked Questions)