iThemes Security is a popular WordPress security plugin that protects your website from hackers, malware, and other online threats. Previously known as Better WP Security, it is trusted by thousands of website owners to help secure and strengthen WordPress websites.
This plugin offers more than 30 ways to secure your site, from login protection and file monitoring to brute-force attack prevention and two-factor authentication.
Why Use iThemes Security?
WordPress websites are often targeted by hackers because of their popularity. Even small sites can be attacked. iThemes Security helps prevent:
- Unauthorized logins
- Brute-force attacks
- Malware injections
- Unwanted file changes
- Website takeovers
It helps lock down your website, making it harder for hackers to get in and easier for you to spot anything suspicious.
Key Features of iThemes Security
Let’s explore what iThemes Security offers to protect your WordPress site:
1. Brute Force Protection
Blocks users who try to guess your username and password too many times.
2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
Adds a second layer of security when logging in, such as a mobile app code or email confirmation.
3. File Change Detection
Notifies you if any files on your website are changed, which can be a sign of a hack.
4. Malware Scanning
Scans your website for malware using the Sucuri SiteCheck Scanner.
5. Strong Password Enforcement
Forces users to use strong passwords, especially important for admins and editors.
6. Database Backups
Automatically backs up your WordPress database. Useful if your site needs to be restored after an attack.
7. WordPress Tweaks (Security Hardening)
Disables or limits features that are commonly used in attacks, like:
- XML-RPC
- File editing from the dashboard
- PHP execution in uploads
8. Lockout Bad Users
Blocks users who try to:
- Access hidden areas
- Use suspicious URLs
- Log in with invalid usernames
9. Hide Login Page
Lets you change the default /wp-login.php URL to make it harder for bots to find your login page.
10. Email Notifications
Sends alerts when someone is locked out, files are changed, or any other threat is detected.
Free vs Pro: Feature Comparison
| Feature | Free Version | Pro Version |
|---|---|---|
| Brute Force Protection | Yes | Yes |
| File Change Detection | Yes | Yes |
| Malware Scanning | Yes | Yes |
| Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) | No | Yes |
| Scheduled Malware Scans | No | Yes |
| Trusted Devices | No | Yes |
| Passwordless Login | No | Yes |
| Google reCAPTCHA Integration | No | Yes |
| User Security Check | No | Yes |
| Security Dashboard & Reports | Basic | Advanced |
| Version Management (auto update fix) | No | Yes |
| Login Alerts | No | Yes |
| Priority Support | No | Yes |
How Does iThemes Security Work?
Once installed, iThemes Security guides you through a setup wizard. It applies the most important settings automatically. You can customize features as needed, like enabling 2FA, hiding login pages, or adjusting lockout rules.
It runs in the background and keeps watching for any unusual behavior. If anything suspicious happens, you’ll get an email notification.
Who Should Use iThemes Security?
iThemes Security is perfect for:
- Bloggers and content creators
- Business website owners
- WooCommerce store owners
- Web developers and freelancers managing multiple sites
If you want strong protection with easy-to-use settings, iThemes Security is a great choice — even for beginners.
Final Thoughts
iThemes Security is a complete security solution for WordPress websites. It offers everything you need to keep your site safe from attacks, with a user-friendly interface and reliable protection.
- The free version is great for basic protection and easy to set up.
- The Pro version is ideal if you want stronger login security, malware scans, and advanced features like 2FA and trusted devices.
No matter the size of your website, taking steps to protect it now can save you from major headaches later.