How To Disable XML-RPC In WordPress

XML-RPC is a remote procedure call (RPC) protocol used by WordPress, which allows various remote services to interact with a WordPress site. However, in recent years, XML-RPC has become a popular target for hackers who exploit vulnerabilities to launch brute-force attacks on WordPress sites. In this article, we will discuss how to disable XML-RPC in WordPress, which is a simple but effective way to improve the security of your site.

Here are the methods on how to Disable XML-RPC in WordPress:

Install a Plugin

One of the easiest ways to disable XML-RPC in WordPress is by installing a plugin. There are several plugins available in the WordPress repository that allow you to disable XML-RPC with a single click. Some of the popular ones are Disable XML-RPC, Disable XML-RPC Pingback, and Disable XML-RPC & REST API.

Edit the .htaccess File

Another way to disable XML-RPC in WordPress is by editing the .htaccess file. You can add the following code to your .htaccess file to block access to the XML-RPC file:

# Block WordPress xmlrpc.php requests
<Files xmlrpc.php>
Order Deny,Allow
Deny from all
</Files>

Add Code to Your Theme’s functions.php File

If you’re comfortable with editing your theme’s functions.php file, you can add the following code to disable XML-RPC:

// Disable XML-RPC
add_filter( 'xmlrpc_enabled', '__return_false' );

Conclusion

Disabling XML-RPC in WordPress is a simple and effective way to improve the security of your site. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily disable XML-RPC and protect your site from potential attacks. Whether you choose to use a plugin or edit your site’s files, taking the time to disable XML-RPC is a worthwhile step to enhance the security of your WordPress site.

Things To Consider When Disabling XML-RPC In WordPress

Here are some additional things to consider when disabling XML-RPC in WordPress:

Compatibility: Some plugins and third-party services may rely on XML-RPC to communicate with your WordPress site. Before disabling XML-RPC, it is important to ensure that none of the plugins or services you use require it to function properly. If you are unsure, you may want to consult with the plugin or service provider to determine whether disabling XML-RPC will cause any issues.

Alternative Methods: If you do need to disable XML-RPC, you may want to consider alternative methods for remote access to your WordPress site. The WordPress REST API, for example, provides similar functionality to XML-RPC and may be a suitable alternative for some use cases.

Site Performance: Disabling XML-RPC may improve the performance of your WordPress site, as it can reduce the load on your server by blocking unnecessary requests. However, it is important to note that the impact on performance will vary depending on the size and complexity of your site.

By taking these factors into consideration, you can make an informed decision about whether to disable XML-RPC in WordPress and choose the best method for your site.