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XML-RPC, What it is and how you can Enable/Disable it Print

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What is XML-RPC in WordPress?

XML-RPC is a core API in WordPress that enables users to connect to their WordPress site using third-party applications, tools, and services. The xmlrpc.php file, located in the root directory of your site, facilitates this remote connection and has been enabled by default since WordPress version 3.5.

Without XML-RPC, various tools and publishing applications would be unable to access your website remotely, forcing users to log directly into the system. Although the REST API has largely replaced XML-RPC, it remains in WordPress for backward compatibility.

However, keeping the XML-RPC file enabled poses security risks, such as making your site vulnerable to DDoS and brute force attacks. It can also slow down your website because the PHP file consumes significant server resources. Deleting the xmlrpc.php file is not effective since it will be recreated during WordPress updates, and it may disrupt the functionality of some third-party applications and plugins that rely on it. Therefore, the best course of action is to disable XML-RPC.

How to Disable XML-RPC

Method 1: Disabling XML-RPC with Plugins

  1. Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard at yourdomain/wp-admin.
  2. Navigate to Plugins.
  3. Use the search box in the top right corner to find the Disable XML-RPC plugin and install it.
  4. Once the plugin is installed, click Activate to enable it. This will automatically disable the xmlrpc.php file.

Method 2: Disabling XML-RPC by Editing the .htaccess File

If you prefer not to use a plugin, you can disable XML-RPC by adding code to your .htaccess file:

  1. Locate and edit the .htaccess file using the File Manager in cPanel or an FTP client. You may need to enable the option to show hidden files.

  2. Click on Settings in the top right of the File Manager and check the box for Show hidden files.

  3. Open your .htaccess file.

  4. Add the following code to block XML-RPC requests:

     
    # Block WordPress xmlrpc.php requests order deny,allow deny from all allow from xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx

    Replace xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx with the specific IP address that you want to allow access to xmlrpc.php, or remove the line entirely to block all access.

  5. Save the file.

Disabling XML-RPC helps eliminate the risk of external attacks on your website.

Important Notes

  • The XML-RPC programming is considered as secure as other core WordPress files. However, if you rely on functions that require remote publishing or use plugins like Jetpack, you may need to re-enable XML-RPC.
  • To re-enable it, simply reverse the changes made with the plugin or code.
  • Disabling XML-RPC alone may not suffice to prevent hacking attempts. Consider installing a robust WordPress firewall to block malicious bots and IP addresses.

By following these steps, you can enhance the security of your WordPress site while managing the necessary functionalities for remote access.


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