Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security feature that adds an extra layer of protection to your WordPress website. It requires users to provide a second form of verification in addition to their password. Here’s how to add 2FA to your WordPress site.
Install and Activate a 2FA Plugin
To enable 2FA in WordPress, you’ll need a 2FA plugin. Some popular options include Two-Factor by Plugin Contributors and Google Authenticator – Two Factor Authentication (2FA) by MiniOrange. Here’s how to install and activate a 2FA plugin:
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
- Go to the “Plugins” section and click “Add New.”
- In the search bar, type the name of the 2FA plugin you want to use (e.g., “Two-Factor” or “Google Authenticator”).
- Find the plugin in the search results and click “Install Now.”
- After installation, click “Activate.”
Read: WordPress Activity Log: What, Why, And How To Use It
Configure the 2FA Plugin
After activation, you can configure the settings of the 2FA plugin:
- In your WordPress dashboard, go to the “Users” section and click “Your Profile.”
- Scroll down to the “Two-Factor Options” or similar section, which is typically added by the 2FA plugin.
- Choose the 2FA method you want to enable. Common options include Time-Based One-Time Password (TOTP) apps like Google Authenticator, SMS codes, or backup codes.
- Follow the instructions provided by the plugin to set up 2FA. The setup process will vary depending on the method you choose.
- Save your changes.
Test 2FA for Your User Account
To ensure that 2FA is working correctly, log out of your WordPress account and log back in. During the login process, you’ll be prompted to enter the second factor of authentication (e.g., a TOTP from Google Authenticator or an SMS code).
Enable 2FA for Other User Accounts
If your WordPress site has multiple user accounts, consider enabling 2FA for other users. This is especially important for administrators and users with elevated privileges.
- In your WordPress dashboard, go to the “Users” section.
- Click on each user account you want to enable 2FA for.
- Scroll down to the “Two-Factor Options” or similar section and configure 2FA settings for each user individually.
Monitor and Manage 2FA
Regularly review and manage 2FA settings for your user accounts. You can use the plugin’s settings to make changes or revoke 2FA for specific users if needed.
Read: What Is WordPress Debugging (And Common Fixes)
Use Backup Codes
Most 2FA plugins provide backup codes that you should securely store in case you lose access to your second factor (e.g., your phone). Make sure to use and store these codes in a safe place.
Read: The Importance Of WordPress Security Headers
Conclusion
Enabling 2FA in WordPress significantly enhances your website’s security by adding an extra layer of authentication. It’s an effective way to protect your site from unauthorised access, especially for users with administrative privileges.
By following these steps, you can easily set up 2FA on your WordPress website and help safeguard your content and data. Also, if your site has multiple users, it’s crucial to educate them about 2FA and encourage them to enable it. Make sure they understand the benefits of this security feature.