We all know the importance of online security, and two-factor authentication (2FA) is a great way to add an extra layer of defense beyond your password.
2FA combines something you know (your password) with something you have (your phone or authenticator app). As cyber threats become increasingly advanced, 2FA helps ward off attacks like phishing and brute-force attempts, which makes it an invaluable part of protecting your WordPress website and online presence.
But here’s the issue: WordPress doesn’t offer built-in 2FA.
Don’t worry, though. We’re here to discuss plugins and methods you can use to implement 2FA on your WordPress website or blog.
Best Practices When Setting Up 2FA
When setting up multi-factor authentication for your WordPress site, it’s important to adhere to industry-standard security practices to ensure effective protection against potential threats. This includes aligning your authentication protocol with recommended security benchmarks.
Choosing the appropriate multi-layer authentication method is equally important, taking into account user needs and technical capabilities. Options include SMS, app-based authentication like Google Authenticator, and hardware tokens. Each method has its advantages and drawbacks. While SMS and email are convenient, they’re vulnerable to interception, whereas app-based methods offer better security by avoiding vulnerable communication channels.
User education also plays a significant role in the successful implementation of extra authentication layers. Providing detailed guidance on setting up and using 2FA is essential. Users should understand how to protect authentication codes and recognize and avoid malicious attempts to bypass authentication, such as phishing. Remember to warn users against sharing their unique codes via text messages, email, or phone calls.
Offering support resources and FAQs is also important when addressing common issues and questions. Users should have access to assistance whenever they encounter challenges with setting up or using two-factor authentication.
Generating and securely storing backup codes is another step to ensure access to accounts in case of device loss or change. Alternative authentication methods, such as recovery email addresses or secondary authentication apps, should be available.
Keeping up with security measures is important, so frequently check and adjust your setup to protect your site against potential threats. Regularly review and update your 2FA settings to keep your accounts secure and up-to-date.
Adding 2FA to Your WordPress Site Using Plugins
While the WordPress core provides a solid foundation for username/password-based login, it lacks native support for multi-layered authentication. To add this security layer to your WordPress site, you’ll need a plugin. Let’s review some 2FA plugin options to help you get started.
Jetpack Security Plugin by Automattic
Pressable users are already set here, thanks to the automatic inclusion of the Jetpack security plugin on all Pressable sites. To add 2FA using Jetpack, simply:
- Navigate to the WordPress dashboard and select Jetpack → Settings → Security
- Scroll down the page to the section titled “WordPress.com” login and toggle the box to require accounts to use two-step authentication
Readers using other hosting platforms may also want to use Jetpack for this purpose, or they may want to explore other plugin options. When choosing an authenticator plugin for your WordPress site, look for features like:
- The ability to generate backup codes.
- Support for multiple authentication methods (like text, email, or app-based authentication) option to upgrade to advanced security measures like passkeys or passwordless login.
Consider plugins that allow you to enforce additional levels of authentication on website users and provide flexibility, such as adding a grace period to allow users to set up 2FA without disruption.
Thoroughly research potential plugins before making a decision. Read user reviews, check how responsive the plugin team is to inquiries and support requests, and ensure compatibility with your site’s setup and requirements.
WP 2FA Plugin by Melapress
WP 2FA is a simple plugin designed to enhance WordPress site security through 2FA. Its features vary by price point, offering flexibility to users with different needs.
The free version of WP 2FA provides a solid foundation with basic functionalities. Users can enjoy mobile and email-based authentication, along with the convenience of backup codes. It also allows users to set up directly from the front-end of their websites, enhancing user experience.
Paid tiers start at $79 a year and unlock additional customizability features, such as adding grace periods and configuring policies based on user roles. The further up the price scale you go, the more features you get, like white labeling the plugin and tailoring the authentication process to match brand identity.
Despite paid versions being available, reviews suggest that the free version of WP 2FA is sufficient for most websites. So, whether you’re a small blog or a large eCommerce platform, Melapress’s WP 2FA plugin offers a scalable solution to protect your WordPress site against potential threats.
Two Factor Authentication Plugin by David Anderson
The Two Factor Authentication plugin is a great tool for enhancing the security of your WordPress site.
The free option of this plugin offers a host of features that strengthen account protection:
- Users can use graphical, QR-code-based 2FA creation for added convenience and security.
- Role-based access ensures that different user roles have appropriate levels of authentication
- Administrators can toggle access on and off for individual users, so you can flexibly implement your login policy as needed.
For those looking for more advanced features, the paid tier of the plugin might be a better option. Starting at $26.33 a year, the premium features include the ability to enforce 2FA use on all website users, enhancing overall security. Front-end editing allows users to customize their 2FA settings directly from the website interface. Including trusted devices adds an extra layer of convenience without compromising security.
While the plugin does not offer email-based authentication due to associated security concerns (if your email address is already compromised, this can be a vulnerability – particularly if your users don’t know to use different passwords for different accounts), its other features more than compensate for this. Reviews note the free version is effective for websites with individual users, but suggest that larger websites may benefit from upgrading to the paid version or exploring other tools.
Google Authenticator Plugin by miniOrange
The miniOrange Google Authenticator plugin is a great solution for implementing more security on your WordPress site.
The free version of the plugin makes 2FA available as an option for all user roles. Users can have multiple authentication methods, including mobile, email, backup codes, and security questions, ensuring flexibility. You can also set up a grace period.
There is also a premium version of the plugin that unlocks powerful features to further enhance security. Site administrators can enforce extra authentication layers for all users, set different policies for various user roles, and customize security questions for added protection. The ability to skip this step on trusted devices can streamline the authentication process for trusted users.
Reviews of the miniOrange Google Authenticator plugin generally praise its ease of use and setup. While some users have reported issues, the plugin’s support team is known for their prompt response and effective solutions, ensuring a smooth user experience overall. With its feature set and responsive support, the miniOrange Google Authenticator plugin is a reliable choice for strengthening the security of your WordPress site.
How to Set Up 2FA for Your MyPressable Control Panel
Adding 2FA to your MyPressable Control Panel is a super easy and effective way to add a layer of security to protect access to your control panel. Here’s how you can set it up in just a few simple steps:
- Log in to your MyPressable control panel: Visit the Pressable website and log in to your MyPressable Control Panel using your username and password.
- Go to security settings: Once logged in, go to the Account tab located on the left sidebar of your MyPressable Control Panel. Under the Account tab, press Security Settings.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Find the Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) option and press Activate.
- Scan the QR code: You will see a QR code displayed on the screen. Open your preferred authenticator app (such as Google Authenticator) on your mobile device and scan the QR code using the app.
- Enter the authentication code: Once the QR code is scanned, the authenticator app will generate a unique authentication code for your MyPressable Control Panel. Enter this code into the designated field on the MyPressable Control Panel screen.
- Save settings: After entering the authentication code, click the Save Changes button to save your settings.
- Backup codes: As a precautionary measure, Pressable provides backup codes that you can use in case you lose access to your authenticator app. Make sure to securely store these backup codes in a safe place.
To make sure that this has been set up correctly, log out of your MyPressable Control Panel and log back in. You will be prompted to enter your password and the authentication code generated by your authenticator app.
Following these straightforward steps, you can easily add an extra layer of security to your MyPressable Control Panel, ensuring that only authorized users can access your website’s sensitive information.
Next Steps for Enhanced WordPress Security
Securing your WordPress site can go a long way toward protecting your online assets. 2FA adds an extra layer of login security, ensuring that only legitimate and verified users can access your website’s backend. You can use plugins to add this feature or you can quickly activate 2FA to your MyPressable Control Panel.
Take the next step in protecting your website’s security by investing in a reliable hosting service like Pressable!
Amanda Tsourakis
With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, Amanda's experience demonstrates her sales expertise. Her commitment to building, training, and guiding high-performing teams has been instrumental in driving Pressable's success. Amanda's extensive background in sales and marketing, coupled with her sharp business acumen, has made her an invaluable asset to the tech community. Her ability to identify and foster talent, combined with her passion for developing winning sales strategies, has propelled her to the forefront of the industry. When she's not expertly navigating the tech sales landscape, she loves spending quality time with her family, loves travel and adventure, lounging pool/beach-side, playing tennis, working out, and meeting people/making friends all along the way!
