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Explanation

XML-RPC is a feature in WordPress that allows remote access to your site. While it can be useful, it also poses security risks, such as enabling brute force attacks. Here's how you can disable it to protect your site:

Disable XML-RPC: The code uses a filter to turn off XML-RPC completely. This means any feature that relies on it will no longer work.
Remove Pingback Header: It removes the X-Pingback HTTP header, which is part of the XML-RPC functionality, to further reduce exposure.
Disable Specific Methods: Certain XML-RPC methods, like pingbacks, are disabled to prevent misuse.
Block Access via .htaccess: The code adds a rule to your .htaccess file to block any direct access to the xmlrpc.php file, adding an extra layer of security.

By implementing these changes, you can significantly reduce the risk of XML-RPC-related vulnerabilities on your WordPress site.

Code

// Disable XML-RPC in WordPress

// Disable XML-RPC methods that require authentication
add_filter('xmlrpc_enabled', '__return_false');

// Remove the X-Pingback HTTP header
add_filter('wp_headers', 'wp_dudecom_remove_x_pingback');
function wp_dudecom_remove_x_pingback($headers) {
    unset($headers['X-Pingback']);
    return $headers;
}

// Disable XML-RPC methods that require authentication
add_filter('xmlrpc_methods', 'wp_dudecom_remove_xmlrpc_methods');
function wp_dudecom_remove_xmlrpc_methods($methods) {
    unset($methods['pingback.ping']);
    unset($methods['pingback.extensions.getPingbacks']);
    return $methods;
}

// Block access to xmlrpc.php via .htaccess
function wp_dudecom_block_xmlrpc_via_htaccess() {
    if (file_exists(ABSPATH . '.htaccess')) {
        $htaccess_content = file_get_contents(ABSPATH . '.htaccess');
        $block_rule = "\n<Files xmlrpc.php>\nOrder Deny,Allow\nDeny from all\n</Files>\n";

        if (strpos($htaccess_content, $block_rule) === false) {
            file_put_contents(ABSPATH . '.htaccess', $htaccess_content . $block_rule);
        }
    }
}
add_action('init', 'wp_dudecom_block_xmlrpc_via_htaccess');

Instructions

To disable XML-RPC in WordPress, follow these steps:

File Location: You will need to edit the functions.php file of your active theme or create a custom plugin file.

Prerequisites: Ensure you have access to your WordPress site's file system, either via FTP or a file manager provided by your hosting service.

Implementation Steps:

Access your WordPress files: Use an FTP client or your hosting provider's file manager to navigate to your WordPress installation directory.
Edit the functions.php file: Locate the functions.php file in your active theme's directory, typically found at wp-content/themes/your-active-theme/.
Add the code: Copy and paste the provided code into the end of the functions.php file. Ensure you do not place it within any existing function or class.
Save the changes: After adding the code, save the functions.php file.
Verify .htaccess file: The code will automatically attempt to update your .htaccess file to block access to xmlrpc.php. Ensure that the file is writable. If not, you may need to manually adjust file permissions or add the block rule manually.
Test your site: Visit your site to ensure it is functioning correctly. Check that XML-RPC is disabled by attempting to access xmlrpc.php directly in your browser; it should be blocked.

By following these steps, you will effectively disable XML-RPC on your WordPress site, enhancing its security.

If you need assistance with this implementation or require more advanced functionality, consider reaching out to wp-dude.com for expert help.

How to Disable XML-RPC in WordPress for Enhanced Security

Explanation

Code

Instructions

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