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Managing a WordPress Multisite has several advantages, from streamlined administration to centralized control. However, it also introduces unique security challenges. Cyberthreats grow exponentially when multiple sites are housed under one roof. Protecting your network using numerous cybersecurity measures is key to keeping it safe.
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Does WordPress Multisite Make You More Vulnerable to Cyberattacks?
WordPress Multisite is a comprehensive feature that makes it easier for larger companies to maintain multiple websites. WordPress lets you access and manage each site from a single dashboard. However, this greater convenience comes with increased risks of security challenges.
Increased Attack Surface
For one, WordPress Multisite can expand the attack surface. Since you have access to multiple sites in one platform, a hacker could get access to your super administrative account and gain control over all of them.
This makes them prime targets for attackers. The more sites you have on your network, the larger your potential attack surface — as each site introduces additional points of entry.
Additionally, all sites within the network share the same WordPress core files, plugins and themes. While this simplifies updates and management, it also introduces risks. Data from WPScan suggests that 94% of security vulnerabilities are in WordPress plugins. If one weakness presents itself in a shared theme or plugin, it can compromise all sites on the network.
Themes and plugins are some of the components that weaken WordPress sites. This is often due to the frequency of updates that developers release. When not updated, sites using the same resources are vulnerable to cybercriminals who use outdated tools as an entry point.
Many other factors contribute to WordPress Multisite network exposures, but that does not necessarily mean it is more vulnerable than a singular WordPress site. Rather, this type of network structure requires a more high-end approach to security. Therefore, it is critical to implement the latest protective measures to avoid cyberattacks continuously.
Cybersecurity Tips for Keeping WordPress Multisite Networks Secure
Some tips to keep your multisite secure include the following:
1. Change WordPress Login Default Settings
One of the most common security susceptibilities in WordPress Multisite is leaving settings at default. The default backend login is easy to find for any WordPress site. Anyone can take your site’s URL and access the login page using site.com/wp-admin.
Adjusting these settings is crucial to preventing unauthorized access, especially when hackers use brute force attacks. This occurs when a hacker uses bots to try different combinations of usernames and passwords. These bots work rapidly to overwhelm your server until they gain access to the administrative account.
Since hackers often use brute force attacks on a WordPress site’s default login page, it would be best to change your login URL. Doing so makes it more difficult for attackers to find your backend login, reducing their likelihood of accessing the account.
2. Regularly Update Core, Themes and Plugins
Since plugins and themes are open source, the code is accessible to anyone. Plugins, themes and even the WordPress core can experience vulnerabilities regularly. When developers release patches and updates to fix them, you must apply them promptly. Otherwise, it leaves your network exposed to known vulnerabilities.
For example, in 2023, an unpatched vulnerability in the Ultimate Member plugin impacted over 200,000 sites in WordPress. Once an exploit becomes public knowledge, it is only a matter of time before malicious actors attempt to access it.
3. Use WordPress Management Tools to Enhance Multisite Security
Several WordPress management tools can give you the extra boost in security you need. They let you monitor activity and apply updates. They also enable you to enforce security policies across the entire network, making it easier to defend your multisite against cyberthreats.
Tools such as ManageWP, MainWP or InfiniteWP are excellent for centralizing control over your multisite network. You can monitor all sites from a single dashboard and detect whether susceptibility has emerged.
They also make it simple to update each security patch across your sites. Some tools even offer bulk updates, allowing you to apply them to all sites at once.
4. Maintain Regular Site Backups
Even with the best security measures, no system is immune to threats. Backups are key because they provide a safety net. You can quickly restore your sites without losing valuable data if something goes wrong.
Since you manage multiple sites on WordPress, data loss or corruption can be much greater. Losing information can be costly and is increasing every year. Recent research by IBM found that the global data breach cost has increased by 15% over the last few years, averaging $4.45 million for each incident. Regular backups ensure you have the most recent copies that you can use to restore your site.
5. Employ a Web Application Firewall
A web application firewall (WAF) is a security barrier that filters malicious requests and protects your sites from cyberthreats. You can use it to block suspicious activity before it reaches your network.
A WAF looks for patterns or behaviors that indicate potential malicious intent. It analyzes HTTP requests and blocks harmful traffic based on preset security rules. This capability allows it to neutralize threats early, preventing damage before it happens.
Many WAF options are available. Cloudflare, Sucuri and Wordfence are popular choices, offering real-time monitoring, customizable rules and protection against common threats.
Keep Your WordPress Multisite Network Secure
Cyberthreats are everywhere, and implementing key security measures is crucial for reducing vulnerabilities. Ensure your WordPress Multisite remains protected so you can focus on growing your sites without the constant worry about potential cyberattacks. Implementing best cybersecurity practices will keep your users and data safe.
