2026 update: This hardening checklist still fits existing Ubuntu 22.04 LTS WordPress LEMP servers, but it should be paired with current package updates, current PHP support, verified backups, and a recovery plan. If you are building a new server today, start with the newest supported Ubuntu LTS and current WordPress requirements, then use this guide for the security shape: updates, login protection, HTTPS, plugin control, and file-editing restrictions.
Before hardening, confirm the base install from the Ubuntu 22.04 LTS LEMP WordPress install guide. For troubleshooting and maintenance, keep the WordPress white screen / error 500 guide, the phpMyAdmin plugin disable guide, and the WordPress update planning guide nearby. For hosted sites, also review the cPanel WordPress hosting security checklist and the Help4.net CDN setup guide.
Current reference links: WordPress requirements, Ubuntu release cycle, Nginx documentation, PHP supported versions, and Certbot TLS instructions.
As a popular content management system, WordPress is often a target for hackers and malicious actors looking to exploit vulnerabilities in websites. Hardening WordPress on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS LEMP stack can help protect your website from such attacks.
In this post, we will guide you through the steps to harden WordPress on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS LEMP stack, while also referencing helpful resources from Help4WordPress.
Step 1: Keep your WordPress and server software up-to-date
One of the most important steps to harden WordPress is to keep it updated with the latest software releases. This includes WordPress itself, as well as the underlying server software such as PHP and MySQL.
To keep your WordPress up-to-date, log in to your WordPress dashboard and check for any available updates. Additionally, make sure to regularly update your server software using the appropriate package manager for your Ubuntu 22.04 LTS LEMP stack.
Step 2: Use strong passwords and limit login attempts
Weak passwords are one of the most common ways hackers gain access to WordPress websites. To harden your WordPress, make sure to use strong passwords for all user accounts and limit the number of login attempts allowed.
Step 3: Install security plugins
Installing security plugins is an easy and effective way to harden your WordPress. Help4WordPress recommends the following security plugins:
- Sucuri.net makes a great FREE plugin that also works with theirs and the GoDaddy.com Website Security Packages offered on their site. This plugin will tell you if a file has been changed or if your site is infected with malware. You will also be able to scan various other parts of your site to help protect it.
- Wordfence Security: Provides real-time malware scanning, firewall protection, and login security.
- Solid Security, formerly iThemes Security: Offers login protection, two-factor authentication options, file-change checks, and other WordPress hardening controls. Confirm current plugin maintenance and test settings on staging before enabling aggressive lockouts.
Step 4: Enable HTTPS
Enabling HTTPS can help secure your website and protect your users’ data. Help4WordPress provides a guide on how to enable HTTPS on your Ubuntu 22.04 LTS LEMP stack using Let’s Encrypt.
Step 5: Disable file editing in WordPress dashboard
Disabling file editing in the WordPress dashboard can help prevent malicious actors from modifying your website’s files. Help4WordPress recommends adding the following line to your wp-config.php file:
define( 'DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true );
This will disable the ability to edit files within the WordPress dashboard.
In conclusion, hardening WordPress on Ubuntu 22.04 LTS LEMP stack is crucial to protect your website from potential security threats. By following the steps outlined in this post and utilizing the resources provided by Help4WordPress, you can ensure that your WordPress website is secure and well-protected.
References:
- Wordfence Security Plugin (https://wordpress.org/plugins/wordfence/)
- iThemes Security Plugin (https://wordpress.org/plugins/better-wp-security/)
- Let’s Encrypt Guide (https://help4wordpress.com/how-to-install-ssl-certificate-on-ubuntu-22-lts-lemp-with-lets-encrypt/)