What are the best practices for WordPress website security?

WordPress security protection requires a multi-layered defense strategy. First, keep WordPress core, themes, and plugins always updated to the latest version to patch security vulnerabilities promptly. Second, use strong passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA) to protect admin accounts, recommending plugins like Wordfence or Google Authenticator. Third, limit login attempts using plugins like Limit Login Attempts Reloaded to prevent brute force attacks. Fourth, add security keys in wp-config.php, visit https://api.wordpress.org/secret-key/1.1/salt/ to get unique keys. Fifth, disable XML-RPC functionality to prevent DDoS attacks by adding add_filter('xmlrpc_enabled', '__return_false') in functions.php. Sixth, disable file editing by setting define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true) and define('DISALLOW_FILE_MODS', true) in wp-config.php. Seventh, use SSL/HTTPS to encrypt data transmission, obtain free certificates through Let's Encrypt. Eighth, regularly backup database and files using plugins like UpdraftPlus or All-in-One WP Migration. Ninth, configure .htaccess file to restrict access to sensitive directories like /wp-admin/ and /wp-includes/. Tenth, install security plugins like Wordfence Security or Sucuri Security for real-time monitoring and firewall protection.