We’ve cleaned up hacked WordPress sites more times than we’d like to admit.
From brute force attacks that locked out business owners to sneaky malware that quietly drained SEO rankings, we’ve seen firsthand how vulnerable WordPress can be if you don’t take security seriously. And nothing kills trust faster than a compromised website; customers bounce, Google flags your site, and recovery can cost thousands.
At OptinMonster, we take WordPress security seriously. Our team runs high-traffic sites, manages client installs, and tests plugins in real-world conditions to see which ones actually keep bad actors out without slowing your site down.
This isn’t just another roundup of “popular” WordPress security plugins. We’ve actually used these plugins in real projects, tested malware scans, stress-tested firewalls, and triggered brute force lockouts to see how each one performs under pressure. You’ll see what worked, what didn’t, and which plugin is really best for your situation.
Whether you’re a solo blogger, an online store owner, or running multiple client sites, the goal is the same: keep your site safe, fast, and stress-free. Below, you’ll find the plugins that passed our tests and the ones we trust to protect our own sites.
Ready to skip the trial-and-error? Let’s dive into the best WordPress security plugins for 2025.
Quick Comparison: Best WordPress Security Plugins at a Glance
| Rank | Plugin | Best For | Key Features | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🥇 Sucuri | Overall security & malware cleanup | Cloud WAF, malware removal, CDN for performance, uptime monitoring | $199.99/year | No |
| 🥈 Wordfence | Firewall + malware scan in one | Endpoint firewall, malware scanner, 2FA, login security | $119/year | Yes |
| 🥉 MalCare | Fast malware removal | One-click malware cleanup, offsite scanning, firewall | $149/year | No |
| 4. All-In-One Security (AIOS) | Free site hardening | Login protection, file change detection, firewall rules | Free | Yes |
| 5. Solid Security (formerly iThemes) | Beginners & SMBs | Brute force protection, 2FA, activity logs, easy setup wizard | $99/year | Yes (lite) |
| 6. Jetpack Security | All-in-one + backups | Daily backups, malware scanning, downtime alerts | $9.95/month | Limited |
| 7. Defender Security | Simplicity & UI | Malware scans, firewall, login protection, IP blocking | $89/year | Yes |
How We Test and Review WordPress Security Plugins
We don’t just list security plugins, we actually test them in real-world scenarios.
Every plugin in this roundup was installed and run on live WordPress sites, including small blogs, high-traffic marketing sites, and WooCommerce stores. We also recreated common attack situations to see how each tool performed when it mattered most.
Here’s what we looked for:
| Criteria | What We Tested |
|---|---|
| Firewall Protection | Does the firewall block attacks before they reach WordPress? Is it cloud-based (like Sucuri) or endpoint-based (like Wordfence)? |
| Malware Detection & Cleanup | How accurate is the malware scanner? Can the plugin remove infections in one click, or is cleanup a manual, paid process? |
| Brute Force Protection | We simulated repeated login attempts to see how quickly plugins blocked them and what lockout options they offered. |
| Performance Impact | Does the plugin slow down the site? We compared on-site scanning vs. offsite scanning (MalCare runs scans off-server, for example). |
| Ease of Use | Is the dashboard beginner-friendly? Can a non-technical user set up strong protection in under 15 minutes? |
| Pricing & Value | Are essential features included in free plans? Does the paid upgrade justify the cost for small businesses? |
We also tracked false positives, update frequency, and support quality, since security tools are only as good as their latest updates.
By combining lab-style testing with real-world installs, we can confidently recommend the plugins below knowing they’ll hold up under pressure.
Why Trust OptinMonster?
At OptinMonster, we’ve been a part of the WordPress community for over a decade, working hands-on with countless WordPress security plugins across our own sites and a wide variety of client projects. This deep experience gives us a unique perspective on what works, what doesn’t, and how different security tools perform in real-world scenarios.
Our insights come from years of testing, troubleshooting, and practical application, from cleaning hacked sites to configuring firewalls and brute force protection, which allows us to confidently recommend the best WordPress security plugins for your specific needs.
Best WordPress Security Plugins
1. Sucuri — Best Overall WordPress Security Plugin
Sucuri has been our go-to solution when we need enterprise-grade protection in a lightweight package. It’s not just a plugin, it’s backed by Sucuri’s global cloud firewall, malware cleanup team, and performance CDN.
If your site gets hacked, Sucuri doesn’t just alert you, it removes the malware and secures the site moving forward. That’s a huge differentiator compared to plugins that only detect issues.
What We Like
- Cloud-based Web Application Firewall (WAF) that blocks threats before they hit your server
- One-click malware removal included in all paid plans
- Performance boost with built-in CDN
- Uptime monitoring and security notifications
What Could Be Better
- No true free version — the free WordPress plugin is limited to basic monitoring
- Some features (like SSL support) require higher-tier plans
- Annual pricing may feel steep for very small sites
Why We Chose Sucuri
When one of our client sites was hit with a hidden SEO spam hack, Sucuri’s malware removal team had it cleaned and back online in hours, without extra fees. Between the proactive firewall and hands-on malware cleanup, it’s the best overall pick for keeping WordPress safe and stress-free.
Pricing
There is a free plugin that offers limited features. Sucuri’s Security Platform Plans start at $229/year. Their Firewall with CDN Plans start at $9.99/month.
2. Wordfence — Best for Firewall + Malware Scan in One
Wordfence is the most widely used WordPress security plugin, and for good reason. It combines a powerful endpoint firewall with a malware scanner that runs directly on your server, giving you layered protection without extra setup.
It’s also one of the most feature-rich free options, which makes it a strong starting point for site owners who want solid security without upfront costs.
What We Like
- Comprehensive free version with firewall, malware scan, and login protection
- Endpoint firewall integrated directly with WordPress for precise rule enforcement
- Two-factor authentication (2FA) and strong login security tools
- Huge threat intelligence network with frequent rule updates
What Could Be Better
- Scanning happens on your server, which can add load on shared hosting plans
- Malware cleanup isn’t included in the base plan — it’s a paid service
- Some users may find the dashboard crowded with advanced settings
Why We Chose Wordfence
We’ve used Wordfence to protect everything from small blogs to busy membership sites. In one stress test, it successfully blocked a brute force attack after just a handful of failed attempts. If you want a free all-in-one option with the option to upgrade later, Wordfence is the best place to start.
Pricing
Wordfence offers a free WordPress plugin. Paid plans start at $119/year
3. MalCare — Best for Fast Malware Removal
MalCare is built around one promise: quick malware cleanup. Unlike other plugins that run scans on your server, MalCare scans your site from their own servers. This means zero performance hit and faster detection of hidden malware.
It also shines when you’re in crisis mode. If your site gets hacked, MalCare lets you clean it up instantly with a one-click malware removal tool — no waiting for support tickets or extra payments.
What We Like
- Offsite scanning that doesn’t slow down your WordPress server
- One-click malware removal included in all paid plans
- Built-in firewall and brute force protection
- Dashboard that’s clean and beginner-friendly
What Could Be Better
- Free plan is limited to scanning only — cleanup requires a paid upgrade
- Doesn’t offer the same CDN/performance boost as Sucuri
- Firewall rules aren’t as customizable as Wordfence
Why We Chose MalCare
When we tested MalCare on a demo site infected with a fake pharma hack, the one-click cleanup tool wiped it clean in under five minutes. For site owners who want peace of mind without learning complex settings, MalCare delivers quick and reliable protection.
Pricing
MalCare offers a free plugin. Paid plans start at $149/year
4. All-In-One Security (AIOS) — Best Free Site Hardening
All-In-One Security (often called AIOS) is the most popular free security plugin for WordPress. It doesn’t try to do everything, but it gives you a strong set of hardening tools that can protect your site right out of the box — no upgrade required.
From blocking brute force logins to detecting file changes, AIOS is ideal for small sites or bloggers who want to lock down WordPress without adding cost.
What We Like
- 100% free with no upsell wall for basic protection
- Easy setup wizard with recommended security levels (Basic, Intermediate, Advanced)
- Login lockdown and 2FA to stop brute force attacks
- File change detection to alert you to suspicious modifications
What Could Be Better
- Malware scanner only checks for file changes — it won’t detect deep infections
- No firewall protection at the cloud level (like Sucuri or MalCare)
- Interface feels a bit dated compared to premium plugins
Why We Chose AIOS
We recommend AIOS as the go-to free option for hardening WordPress. In our tests, it quickly blocked repeated login attempts and flagged unauthorized file edits. While it won’t replace a dedicated firewall or malware cleanup service, it’s the best free safety net for most site owners.
Pricing
All-in-One Security’s basic WordPress plugin is free, and the premium plugin starts at $70/year.
5. Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) — Best for Beginners & SMBs
Solid Security has been around for years under the iThemes brand, and it remains one of the easiest ways to secure a WordPress site. The plugin walks you through setup with a step-by-step wizard, so even non-technical users can get strong protection in minutes.
It focuses on practical features like brute force protection, two-factor authentication, and activity logs — all the essentials most small businesses need to stay safe.
What We Like
- Simple setup wizard makes it beginner-friendly
- Strong brute force protection with lockout rules
- Built-in two-factor authentication (2FA)
- Activity logs for tracking suspicious user behavior
What Could Be Better
- Some advanced features are locked behind the Pro plan
- Doesn’t include malware cleanup or a full WAF like Sucuri or MalCare
- Interface can feel overwhelming once you dive into advanced options
Why We Chose Solid Security
When setting up security for a local business site with multiple users, Solid Security gave us quick protection without needing a security expert. It’s a great pick for small businesses or site owners who want a balance of simplicity and strength.
Pricing
Solid Security Pro starts at $99/year. The full 3-tool suite starts at $199/year.
6. Jetpack Security — Best All-in-One with Backups
Jetpack Security is a great option if you want more than just security. It bundles malware scanning with daily backups, downtime monitoring, and easy restore options. That makes it especially popular with WooCommerce store owners and bloggers who want peace of mind with a single plugin.
Since it’s developed by Automattic (the team behind WordPress.com), Jetpack is deeply integrated with WordPress and tends to “just work” without a lot of tinkering.
What We Like
- Automatic daily backups with one-click restore
- Malware scanning and downtime monitoring built in
- Simple dashboard integrated directly into WordPress
- Affordable monthly pricing for smaller sites
What Could Be Better
- Backup storage is limited unless you upgrade to higher plans
- Some features require a separate Jetpack subscription (can get pricey if you add modules)
- Doesn’t include a dedicated firewall like Sucuri or Wordfence
Why We Chose Jetpack Security
When testing Jetpack on a WooCommerce site, we loved how easy it was to restore a site after intentionally breaking it. For site owners who want backups and security in one plugin without juggling multiple tools, Jetpack Security is the simplest all-in-one option.
Pricing
Jetpack Security starts at $9.95/month. The complete Jetpack suite starts at $25.95/month.
7. Defender Security — Best for Simplicity & User-Friendly UI
Defender Security by WPMU DEV is a well-rounded plugin that focuses on making WordPress security easy to understand. It comes with malware scans, firewall rules, login protection, and IP blocking, all wrapped in a clean interface that’s great for beginners.
It doesn’t try to overload you with advanced configurations, which makes it a solid choice for site owners who want quick setup and ongoing peace of mind.
What We Like
- Intuitive interface that’s easy for non-technical users
- Malware scans, firewall rules, and brute force protection built in
- IP blocking and 2FA support for stronger login security
- Generous free version with upgrade path
What Could Be Better
- Malware cleanup requires upgrading to a Pro subscription
- Lacks the global WAF protection offered by Sucuri
- Fewer advanced configuration options than Wordfence
Why We Chose Defender Security
During testing, we found Defender to be one of the fastest to set up — we had login protection and scans running in under 10 minutes. For bloggers, small sites, or agencies managing multiple installs, Defender is a reliable, user-friendly way to secure WordPress without extra complexity.
Pricing
Jetpack Security starts at $7.50/month.
Best WordPress Security Plugins — Quick Picks
Not sure which one to choose? Here’s a quick breakdown of the best WordPress security plugins based on our testing:
- Best Overall: Sucuri — Complete protection with firewall + malware cleanup
- Best Free Plugin: All-In-One Security (AIOS) — Strong site hardening at no cost
- Best for Beginners: Solid Security — Easy setup wizard + user-friendly dashboard
- Best for Fast Malware Cleanup: MalCare — One-click malware removal, offsite scans
- Best Free + Paid Hybrid: Wordfence — Feature-rich free version, powerful Pro upgrade
- Best All-in-One Security + Backups: Jetpack Security — Security bundled with daily backups
- Best for Simplicity: Defender Security — Beginner-friendly, clean interface, solid basics
WordPress Security Plugins FAQs
1. Do I really need a WordPress security plugin if my host already provides protection?
Yes. While many hosting providers include some security features, they often focus on the server level (like firewalls or malware monitoring). A dedicated plugin adds site-level protection such as brute force prevention, file change monitoring, and login security — giving you a second line of defense.
2. Can I use more than one security plugin at the same time?
It’s not recommended. Running multiple security plugins can cause conflicts, duplicate features, and unnecessary server load. Instead, choose one comprehensive plugin (like Sucuri or Wordfence) and supplement with a backup plugin if needed.
3. What’s the difference between a cloud firewall and an endpoint firewall?
A cloud firewall (like Sucuri) filters traffic before it ever reaches your hosting server, reducing server load and blocking threats earlier. An endpoint firewall (like Wordfence) runs on your WordPress site itself, which offers more granular control but can use more server resources.
4. Which is the best free WordPress security plugin?
All-In-One Security (AIOS) is our top free pick because it includes essential hardening tools, login protection, and file monitoring with no upsell barrier. If you want a free option with scanning and firewall features, Wordfence also offers a robust free version.
5. What should I do if my WordPress site is already hacked?
If you’re already hacked, choose a plugin that includes cleanup — like Sucuri or MalCare. Both offer one-click malware removal in paid plans. You’ll also want to change all admin passwords, update plugins and themes, and restore from a clean backup if possible.
We hope you found this article helpful in choosing the best security plugin for WordPress. If so, you may also want to check out the following resources:
- 15 eCommerce Marketing Ideas to Grow Your Online Sales
- How to Launch a Successful Ecommerce Site: 9 Tips & Tools
- How to Easily Verify an Email Address With TruLead®
These resources will have more information on how you can safely grow as an eCommerce business no matter what stage you’re in.
Ready to grow your list, boost conversions, and get more sales from your WordPress site? Get started with OptinMonster today!
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