Most WordPress vulnerabilities still originate in plugins and themes. This guide focuses on server-side controls: rate limiting, WAF rules, and virtual patching so you can reduce risk even when vendors are slow to patch.
High-impact controls
- Rate-limit login and XML-RPC endpoints
- Protect admin routes with WAF rules
- Block known exploit paths proactively
Virtual patching in practice
- Use a WAF or security tooling to block exploit signatures
- Especially valuable when plugins are abandoned or slow to patch
- Reduces risk while you plan safer updates
Operational reality
- Hundreds of new WordPress-related vulnerabilities are disclosed weekly
- Not all receive timely fixes
- Visibility and containment matter as much as patching
FAQ
What’s the difference between virtual patching and updating plugins?
Virtual patching blocks known attack patterns at the server or CDN layer. It doesn’t fix the bug in the code. Use it to buy time; still plan to update or replace vulnerable plugins. See security hardening for a full baseline.
Should I put Cloudflare in front of WordPress for security?
Cloudflare can provide WAF and DDoS mitigation. Align SSL and caching correctly so you don’t introduce redirect loops or break admin.
Related
- Safer plugin updates on production WordPress — update discipline
- Essential security hardening for self-hosted WordPress — hardening baseline
- Cloudflare + WordPress origin basics — CDN and origin behavior