Ever wondered if it’s actually possible to make your WordPress site secure without a tech degree or spending hours wrestling with settings? You’re not alone. With hackers targeting millions of websites each year, even small blogs can find themselves at risk.
But security doesn’t have to be complicated. This article breaks down really simple, effective ways to protect your site, covering straightforward steps and helpful tips so you can stay safe—no technical expertise required.
What Is Really Simple Security for WordPress?
Really Simple Security is a popular WordPress plugin designed to boost your site’s security with minimal effort and complexity. Formerly known as Really Simple SSL, this plugin now covers more than just SSL certificates — it offers a suite of tools aimed at protecting your WordPress site from common vulnerabilities and attacks, all while remaining lightweight and easy to use.
At its core, Really Simple Security focuses on giving non-technical users straightforward options to harden their sites. Whether you run a personal blog or an online store, this plugin is created with simplicity and performance in mind, ensuring your site stays fast while adding strong defenses.
Let’s dive deeper into how this plugin works, why you might want to use it, and how you can get started quickly.
Key Features of Really Simple Security
Really Simple Security is favored by millions of WordPress users due to its practical features. Here’s what you can expect:
-
One-Click SSL Activation
Seamlessly converts your site from HTTP to HTTPS, ensuring your data is encrypted and secure. -
Security Hardening Tools
Offers quick toggles for important settings, like disabling file editing from the WordPress dashboard and limiting login attempts. -
Vulnerability Monitoring
Regularly scans your WordPress installation, themes, and plugins for vulnerabilities. -
Brute Force Attack Protection
Helps prevent repeated login attempts by blocking users after several failed logins. -
Content Security Policy Management
Allows you to set browser policies that help guard against cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. -
Automatic Redirection
Redirects all traffic to the secure HTTPS version of your site, protecting user data in transit. -
Lightweight and Fast
Designed not to slow down your site, even as it adds layers of protection.
How to Set Up Really Simple Security on Your WordPress Site
Getting started with Really Simple Security is, as the name suggests, really simple! Here’s a step-by-step guide to protect your site almost instantly.
1. Install the Plugin
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
- Navigate to Plugins > Add New.
- Search for “Really Simple Security.”
- Click Install Now, then Activate.
2. Enable SSL (If Not Already Enabled)
Most modern web hosts provide free SSL certificates. Once your certificate is installed at the server level:
- Open the Really Simple Security plugin settings.
- Click the option to enable SSL.
- The plugin will automatically update your settings and redirect all HTTP traffic to HTTPS.
3. Review Security Recommendations
The plugin will usually give you a checklist of recommended actions, such as:
- Turning off in-dashboard file editing.
- Enabling HTTP security headers (like Content Security Policy).
- Setting limits on login attempts.
- Checking for vulnerable plugins or themes.
Check each item and enable what’s relevant for your site.
4. Set Up Advanced Protections (Pro Version)
For more advanced users or larger sites, the Pro version includes:
- Real-time security monitoring.
- Two-factor authentication for logins.
- Automated security scans.
- Enhanced firewall features.
If your website handles sensitive data or you want an extra layer of protection, consider the upgrade.
Benefits of Using Really Simple Security
This plugin’s popularity is no surprise, given how much it streamlines site security. Here are the major advantages:
Easy to Use
- Designed for everyone — you don’t need to know code.
- The dashboard is clear, non-technical, and actionable.
All-in-One Solution
- Handles SSL, security headers, login protection, and vulnerability checks in a single package.
- Reduces the need for multiple plugins, minimizing compatibility issues.
Automatically Keeps Up with Best Practices
- Updated regularly to reflect new WordPress security standards.
- Takes the guesswork out of staying protected as threats evolve.
Minimal Performance Impact
- Focuses on lightweight code for fast loading times.
- Does not bloat your WordPress installation.
Supported by a Large Community
- Used by millions, including businesses, bloggers, and online stores.
- Frequent updates and support from experienced developers.
Common Challenges and How to Solve Them
Even with an easy-to-use plugin, you may face occasional hurdles. Here are some common issues and simple fixes:
Plugin Conflicts
Some security or caching plugins may overlap functions or cause errors.
- Solution:
Disable one plugin at a time to identify conflicts. Ensure you only have one SSL or redirect plugin active.
SSL Certificate Not Found
If the plugin can’t detect an SSL certificate, you’ll get an error.
- Solution:
Check with your hosting provider to confirm SSL is installed at the server level before enabling in the plugin.
Site Login Blocked After Failed Attempts
Overly aggressive brute force protection might lock you out.
- Solution:
Whitelist your IP address or use your hosting panel’s file manager to temporarily disable the plugin if you’re locked out.
Mixed Content Warnings
After enabling HTTPS, you might see browser warnings if your site still loads non-secure resources (like images or scripts).
- Solution:
Use the plugin’s content scan or update your internal links to load over HTTPS.
Practical Tips for Securing Your WordPress Site
While Really Simple Security provides a strong foundation, consider these extra steps to reinforce your site’s defenses:
1. Keep Everything Updated
- Always use the latest version of WordPress, your themes, and your plugins. Developers frequently fix security holes.
2. Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication
- Encourage users and admins to create strong, unique passwords.
- Enforce two-factor authentication for an extra login layer.
3. Check User Roles Regularly
- Delete unused accounts, reduce admin privileges, and ensure only trusted people have sensitive access.
4. Schedule Regular Backups
- Always have backups stored off-site, so you can quickly recover in case of a breach.
5. Hide the Login URL
- Consider changing your login URL from the default (wp-login.php) to make it harder for attackers to target you.
6. Use Secure Hosting
- Choose a host with built-in security features such as firewalls, malware scanning, and regular updates.
7. Monitor Your Site for Unusual Activity
- Check your user logs for unexpected changes, and scan for new or unfamiliar plugins.
8. Test and Audit Your Security Regularly
- Use tools or services (the Pro version offers some) to scan for vulnerabilities, out-of-date plugins, and configuration errors.
Free vs. Pro: Is It Worth Upgrading?
Really Simple Security offers both a free and a paid (Pro) version. Here’s how to decide which is right for you:
Free Version
- Best for personal sites, blogs, and small businesses.
- Covers SSL, basic security hardening, and vulnerability monitoring.
- No cost, easy to install and set up.
Pro Version
- Suitable for e-commerce sites, large blogs, or businesses handling sensitive data.
- Adds advanced firewall, real-time monitoring, two-factor authentication, and priority support.
- Annual subscription fee, with pricing tiers based on the number of sites.
Cost Tip:
Start with the free version to see if it meets your needs. Upgrade only if you find yourself needing advanced features or additional support.
Summing Up: Should You Use Really Simple Security?
Absolutely—especially if you want a “set it and forget it” security tool that covers the basics (and then some) without slowing down your website. Its blend of automation, clear recommendations, and community trust makes it one of the simplest, most effective choices for WordPress users at any experience level.
Remember, no single plugin can guarantee 100% security, but Really Simple Security covers the essentials, freeing you to focus on your content or business. Combine it with smart password practices, up-to-date plugins, and regular backups, and you’ll have a strong first line of defense.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does Really Simple Security do for my WordPress site?
Really Simple Security boosts your site’s protection by enabling HTTPS, blocking brute force login attempts, scanning for vulnerabilities, and applying essential security best practices—all through a user-friendly dashboard.
Will Really Simple Security slow down my website?
No. The plugin is built to be lightweight, with a focus on performance. It provides effective security without bogging down your site’s speed.
Can I use this plugin if I already have SSL from my web host?
Yes. The plugin helps ensure your SSL is configured correctly and redirects all visitors to the secure (HTTPS) version of your site. It does not issue SSL certificates itself but manages existing ones.
Do I need technical knowledge to use Really Simple Security?
Not at all. It’s designed for beginners and non-technical users. Most of the setup is automated, and recommendations are clearly explained in plain English.
Is the free version enough, or should I buy Pro?
For most small websites and blogs, the free version is sufficient. If you run a larger site, handle customer data, or want advanced features like a firewall, two-factor authentication, or priority support, upgrading to Pro is a smart investment.
By choosing Really Simple Security, you take a big step toward a safer, more reliable WordPress site—all without the headache of confusing options or slowdowns. Secure your site today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with strong, simple protection!