Two-Step Authentication for WordPress.com: A Quick Guide

If you’ve used a Google account like Gmail, you’ve probably come across two-step authentication. This security feature adds an extra layer of protection by requiring two forms of verification to access your account. It’s an effective way to guard against hacking attempts, especially brute-force attacks. By using both a password and a verification code (via SMS or an app), even if someone steals your password, they’ll still need the second code to break in.

For more details on how it works, check out the guide below.

Why is Two-Step Authentication Important for WordPress.com?

Now, let’s shift focus to today’s main topic: setting up two-step authentication for your WordPress for your WordPress.com account. As WordPress is one of the most widely used platforms for blogging and website creation, protecting your account with this feature is essential. Here’s why:

1. Securing Your Blog or Website:
   If you’ve built a blog or website using WordPress.com, enabling two-step authentication ensures that your account is protected against potential hacking attempts. Losing access to your WordPress account could mean losing all the hard work you’ve put into creating content, managing your audience, and maintaining your online presence. By enabling this feature, you’re significantly reducing the chances of that happening.
2. Maximising Jetpack’s Single Sign-On Feature:
   For those using the popular Jetpack plugin on their WordPress site, two-step authentication becomes even more beneficial. Jetpack includes a feature called Single Sign-On (SSO), which allows you to log in to your WordPress site using your WordPress.com credentials. Activating two-step authentication ensures that this process remains secure, adding a layer of trust when using SSO.

These are just a few key reasons why enabling two-step authentication is critical for safeguarding your WordPress.com account. In the following steps, I’ll walk you through the process of setting it up to ensure your account and blog are safe from unauthorised access.

How to Enable Two-Step Authentication for Your WordPress.com Account

Step 1: Install the 2FA Plugin

To get started, you’ll need to log into your WordPress.com dashboard. Once there, follow these steps:

1. From the dashboard, navigate to the Plugins section.
2. Click on Add New.

3. In the search bar, type “WP 2FA.”
4. Find the WP 2FA Plugin and click Install and then Activate.

Step 2: Set Up Two-Step Authentication

Once activated, a startup wizard will guide you through the 2FA setup process. Here’s what to do:

1. Choose Your Authentication Method: You can select between different methods such as:
   • Authenticator App: This is the most secure option, requiring you to scan a QR code using an app like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator.
   • Email Verification: Alternatively, you can choose to receive a one-time code via email.

2. Select the Authenticator App option for stronger security.

3. Backup Codes: During the setup, the system will generate a set of backup codes. These codes are important in case you lose access to your authenticator app, allowing you to still log in to your WordPress site.
   • Write these codes down and store them in a safe place for future use.

4. Enforce 2FA for All Users (Optional): If your website has multiple users, you can enforce 2FA for everyone. This ensures that all users must follow the 2FA process when logging in.

Step 3: Scan the QR Code

After selecting your preferred authentication method, you’ll be prompted to scan a QR code with your authenticator app:

1. Open your Authenticator App (Google or Microsoft).
2. Click on the plus (+) sign to add a new account.

3. Scan the QR code displayed on your WordPress screen.

4. Once scanned, the WordPress site will appear in your app as a new account with a six-digit code that refreshes every 30 seconds.

Step 4: Finalise the Setup

1. Enter the code from the authenticator app into the WordPress 2FA setup wizard.

2. Click Validate & Save.
3. After successfully entering the code, you’ll be asked to finalise the setup by confirming backup codes.

and clicking I’m ready, close the wizard.

Step 5: Test Your 2FA

To ensure everything is working properly, log out of your WordPress.com account and try logging back in:

1. Enter your username and password as usual.
2. When prompted, open your authenticator app and input the six-digit code.

With 2FA successfully enabled, you’ll now need both your password and the code from your authenticator app to access your WordPress site.

Conclusion

Enabling Two-Step Authentication on your WordPress.com website is a key move in enhancing security and safeguarding against unauthorised access. However, securing your site doesn’t stop here—ongoing protection requires regular updates and the implementation of additional security measures.

If you want to ensure your website’s security is fully optimised, Unified Computing offers comprehensive solutions tailored to your needs. From advanced security setups to complete site management, we’re here to help you stay ahead of potential threats. Reach out today and fortify your digital presence with confidence.