Understanding the Secret Access URL
The Secret Access Link is your backup plan to regain access to your website if you get locked out. This can happen if you have enabled the “Protect Login” feature or Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) and are unable to log in.
How It Works
When you enable the firewall and login protection features in Security Ninja, including 2FA, an email is sent to you containing the Secret Access URL. This URL is unique to your site and your IP address. Keep this email safe, as it will be crucial if you ever get locked out of your website.
Email Content
The wording in the email is similar to this:
Save your secret access link for ... Thank you for installing Security Ninja Please keep this email for your records. In the unlikely situation that your IP gets banned, or if you are locked out due to 2FA, you will need the secret access link. Your secret access link is ... Copy-paste this URL to your browser to whitelist your IP, allowing you to log back in. Please keep it safe and do not share it with others. Use it only if you get blocked by the firewall or 2FA.
Using the Secret Access URL
If you find yourself locked out of your website due to too many failed login attempts or issues with 2FA, follow these steps:
- Locate the email sent by Security Ninja with the subject line “Security Ninja Firewall secret access link.”
- Copy the provided URL from the email.
- Paste the URL into your browser’s address bar and press Enter.
- This will whitelist your current IP address, allowing you to log in again. If 2FA is causing the issue, this URL will also deactivate 2FA temporarily.
Deactivating 2FA with the Secret Access URL
If you’re locked out due to Two-Factor Authentication, the Secret Access URL will not only whitelist your IP but also temporarily deactivate 2FA for your site. This allows you to regain access to your admin panel and resolve any issues with your 2FA settings.
Important Notes
Keep the Secret Access URL safe and do not share it with others. It should only be used if you get blocked by the firewall or encounter 2FA issues. This URL is a vital tool to ensure you can always regain access to your website.