WordPress Multisite Security: Tips to Secure Your Network

The idea of operating several websites from a single WordPress install can seem appealing until security concerns arise.

A frequent concern among users is that securing a WordPress multisite platform might demand extra time and attention.

This is a valid concern. A single point of weakness can jeopardize every website within the multisite network.

Fortunately, a WordPress multisite setup can achieve strong security through appropriate measures.

Having managed our own multisite platform for some time, we’ll share proven WordPress multisite security strategies to help you safeguard your network.

What Is WordPress Multisite?

Picture managing several websites without the hassle of distinct logins or installations. That’s precisely the functionality WordPress multisite offers.

It’s a built-in feature that allows you to run multiple websites from a single WordPress installation, all controlled from one dashboard.

This configuration is commonly favored by organizations, educational institutions, and companies managing several sites centrally. Blog networks and thriving online communities also find it useful.

WordPress multisite implementation may sound technical initially, but it’s surprisingly straightforward. Our detailed multisite setup guide simplifies the process.

While multisite offers substantial power, it also introduces unique security considerations. Since all websites share core files, a single vulnerability can compromise the entire network if security is inadequate.

Is WordPress Multisite Secure?

Yes, WordPress multisite is very secure, particularly when it is properly managed.

It’s integrated within WordPress, a platform with ongoing maintenance and consistent updates that address security flaws.

Multisite configurations, however, present specific security challenges. Given that all sites use the same core files and database, a vulnerability in one area can compromise the entire network.

We’ve seen cases where a small plugin flaw affected all sites in a multisite setup, highlighting the necessity of proactive security for your whole network.

Rest assured, with the appropriate measures, a WordPress multisite can achieve the same security level as a regular WordPress site. Let’s examine how to confidently secure your network.

WordPress Multisite Security Tips

Securing a WordPress multisite involves more than simple lockdown procedures; it’s about anticipating potential threats. We’ve observed that vulnerabilities can arise from minor oversights like neglected updates or excessive admin rights.

Securing a WordPress multisite doesn’t need to be daunting. Employing a few strategic practices can significantly enhance the security of every site within your network.

Let’s review the essential steps we advise for enhancing your WordPress multisite security effectively.

1. Back Up Your WordPress Multisite Regularly

At CanadaCreate, our WordPress security discussions invariably begin with backups, the most crucial measure for shielding your website against data loss.

We’ve directly observed how dependable backups transform stressful incidents into manageable issues. Whether facing malware, plugin malfunctions, or unintentional deletions, a backup enables complete network restoration without data loss.

Many users report that their hosting providers offer automatic backups. However, these backups may not always be guaranteed or readily available when required.

Therefore, we consistently advise assuming control over your backups. This is simpler than anticipated, especially with the appropriate resources.

Duplicator stands out as the premier method for backing up your multisite network. This robust backup plugin simplifies network protection.

Why Do We Recommend Duplicator?

• Schedule automated backups effortlessly.
• Safely store backups on the cloud.
• Restore your entire multisite network with one click.

Our comprehensive Duplicator review provides further details on its features.

After installing Duplicator, it will guide you through the configuration. Subsequently, you can automate backups according to your preferred schedule.

If you require assistance, refer to our detailed tutorial on backing up WordPress multisite.

2. Choose a Secure Hosting Provider with Experience in Multisite Setups

Your hosting provider plays a huge role in the security of your WordPress multisite network. Not all web hosts are built for multisite setups, and choosing the wrong one can leave your entire network vulnerable to attacks.

We’ve worked with a few different hosting providers that offer great performance with a properly secure platform.

Starter WordPress Multisite

For a new WordPress multisite, we recommend Bluehost. They offer a free domain, SSL, and built-in security features.

They support all types of WordPress multisite configurations, including custom domains, subdomains, and directory sites. Plus, they are offering CanadaCreate users a huge discount on hosting (you can start at $1.99 / mo).

For more details, take a look at our Bluehost review, which includes our performance test scores and pros and cons.

For Established WordPress Multisites

We all know that WordPress multisite can be resource-intensive, especially for websites with existing traffic and user base. For these kinds of websites, we’ll go for a little more expensive option: SiteGround.

Here is why we recommend SiteGround:

• Can handle more traffic than your average shared hosting provider.
• One of the top-rated managed WordPress hosting companies on the market.
• Excellent customer support, fast servers, and hassle-free platform.

We use SiteGround to host several websites, including CanadaCreate. It has been incredibly reliable for our website’s growth and success. See why we switched to SiteGround, or take a look at our in-depth SiteGround review.

Going with a trusted hosting provider gives you peace of mind, knowing your sites are protected from the ground up.

3. Limit Super Admin Privileges

In a WordPress multisite network, the ‘Super Admin‘ has complete control over every site. They can install plugins, manage themes, and even delete websites from the network.

We’ve seen WordPress multisite networks where each individual site admin was also a super admin. Giving too many people super admin access can backfire.

A simple mistake or compromised account with this level of control can put the entire network at risk.

The best practice? Keep super admin privileges limited to only the most trusted individuals managing the network.

To restrict access, go to Network Admin » Users » All Users and ensure only essential team members have super admin rights.

For larger teams, consider creating custom user roles with limited permissions using a plugin like Members. It allows you to create custom permissions for user roles, and this way, you can assign responsibilities without giving full control.

For more details, see our guide on WordPress user roles and permissions.

4. Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication

We’ve all been guilty of using a password that’s a little too easy to guess—something like password123Avoid easily guessed passwords, such as common words or a pet’s name. On a WordPress multisite network, weak passwords present a significant security vulnerability.

Compromised passwords can provide hackers access to an entire multisite network. Recovering from such a breach is time-consuming and stressful.

Enforcing strong passwords for all network users is highly recommended. Refer to our tutorial for automatically forcing strong passwords in WordPress.

However, strong passwords alone do not provide sufficient protection in today’s threat landscape.

Implement two-factor authentication (2FA) to provide an additional layer of security. This process requires a one-time code after entering your password, similar to adding a second lock.

The WP 2FA plugin simplifies this process by guiding you through the setup, making network security straightforward.

Our step-by-step guide explains how to add two-factor authentication in WordPress, if you need assistance.

5. Keep WordPress Core, Themes, and Plugins Updated

Updating WordPress, themes, and plugins might seem tedious, but neglecting updates can create serious security vulnerabilities.

Outdated plugins can serve as entry points for hackers, transforming a minor oversight into a widespread network problem.

The good news? Keeping everything updated doesn’t have to be complicated.

WordPress releases regular updates to address vulnerabilities and enhance performance, ensuring your entire multisite network remains secure.

Keep your WordPress core current. Refer to our guide on updating WordPress.

Update plugins and themes regularly. See our tutorial on safely updating WordPress plugins.

6. Set Up a WordPress Firewall

A WordPress firewall acts as a security guard for your multisite network, preventing threats from reaching you.

At CanadaCreate, Cloudflare has significantly improved security. It blocks DDoS attacks, spam bots, and suspicious logins without slowing the site. Our Cloudflare case study provides more information.

Cloudflare offers a free plan, adding an extra layer of security at no cost.

Our tutorial details how to set up Cloudflare in WordPress.

To enhance security further, consider these options.

You can also install a dedicated WordPress security plugin like Sucuri or Wordfence. These plugins add extra features like malware scanning and activity logs, making your multisite network even safer.

7. Restrict Plugin and Theme Installations

In WordPress multisite, only super admins install plugins and themes network-wide. Site admins can only enable already-installed plugins.

We’ve seen how unrestricted plugin access can lead to issues—like when a poorly coded plugin introduces security vulnerabilities across multiple sites. Keeping plugin and theme installation restricted helps avoid these risks.

The safest approach? Limiting plugin and theme installations to trusted super admins who only network activate thoroughly tested and well-reputed plugins.

If you’re unsure how plugin activation works in multisite, check out our guide on network activating plugins on WordPress multisite.

8. Enable Activity Monitoring and Logging

When managing a WordPress multisite network, keeping track of user actions isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for security. We’ve seen how a single unnoticed change, like a plugin deactivation or permission update, can lead to unexpected vulnerabilities.

That’s why we recommend using a reliable activity logging tool like WP Activity Log. It helps you monitor everything from user logins to content changes so you can catch suspicious activity early.

With a logging tool in place, you can:

• Track when plugins or themes are activated or deactivated.
• Monitor user logins and failed login attempts.
• Review content edits and permission changes.

If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide on setting up activity monitoring, check out our tutorial on how to monitor user activity in WordPress.

Common WordPress Multisite Security Mistakes

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to overlook certain security practices when managing a WordPress multisite network. Unfortunately, small mistakes can snowball into major vulnerabilities.

Here are frequent security oversights to avoid:

• Over-Allocation of Super Admins:Granting super admin privileges to many users raises the likelihood of unintentional errors and security compromises. Confine this role to a select group of reliable individuals.
• Employing Insufficient Passwords:Poor passwords simplify unauthorized access. Mandate robust passwords for all accounts and implement two-factor authentication.
• Neglecting Updates:Neglecting updates for the WordPress core, plugins, and themes exposes your network to known vulnerabilities. Maintain current software versions.
• Relying Solely on Hosting Backups:Restoring from hosting backups can be unreliable or complex. Configure independent, offsite backups via a plugin like Duplicator.
• Installing Untrusted Plugins and Themes:Plugins and themes from dubious origins may present security threats. Use reputable sources and control which users install tools on your network.

Avoiding these errors greatly contributes to WordPress Multisite security. Proactive measures and consistent review of network security settings are essential.

Final Thoughts 💭

Securing a WordPress multisite network can seem daunting initially, yet it becomes manageable with appropriate measures. Our experience across various multisite setups highlights how proactive security prevents significant problems.

Implementing scheduled backups, restricting super admin rights, and utilizing tools such as Cloudflare and WP Activity Log helps create a more secure environment for all sites within your network.

Maintaining security is not a one-off event, but a continuous process. It involves diligent software updates, access reviews, and routine activity monitoring.

By implementing these suggestions, you can establish a secure and dependable WordPress multisite network.

Bonus Resources for WordPress Multisite Security

Consider these supplementary resources to further assist you in managing your WordPress multisite network:

• Beginner’s Guide to Fixing Your Hacked WordPress Site 🛡️: If your WordPress multisite gets hacked, this guide shows the steps you need to take to start fixing it by yourself.
• Best WordPress Multisite Plugins You Should Use 🔌 : Our team shares their recommendations for essential plugins for WordPress multisite networks.
• How to Move a Site from WordPress Multisite to Single Install 🔃: Use this guide if you need to migrate a site from a multisite installation to a standalone WordPress setup.
• How to Add / Remove Default Pages in WordPress Multisite 📃 : This guide explains how to add or remove pages created by default on your multisite network.

We hope this article helped you improve WordPress multisite security. You may also want to explore our WordPress troubleshooting guide or learn about common WordPress maintenance tasks.

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