Website protection is one of the biggest priorities for WordPress users today. With the platform powering more than 43% of all websites worldwide, it has also become the number one target for hackers and cybercriminals. Every day, thousands of WordPress sites are exposed to brute force login attempts, malware injections, and automated attacks. A single weak spot can result in stolen customer data, black listing by Google, or even complete site takeover. This Solid Security (iThemes Security) Review explores how the plugin helps site owners defend against these risks in 2025.
Formerly known as iThemes Security, the plugin has been rebranded as Solid Security and modernized to meet the needs of today’s website owners. With over 1 million active installations, it remains a trusted name in WordPress security. Its primary goal is simplicity—providing brute force protection, two-factor authentication (2FA), file change detection, and WordPress hardening in a way that is accessible for both beginners and advanced users.
In the following review, we’ll examine Solid Security’s features, pricing, pros and cons, and comparisons with alternatives like Wordfence, Sucuri, and MalCare to determine if it’s the right solution for your WordPress site in 2025.
What is Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security, previously known as iThemes Security, is a popular WordPress security plugin designed to protect websites from common online threats. Developed by iThemes (and later acquired by Liquid Web), the plugin was rebranded to Solid Security to reflect its modernized features and stronger focus on all-in-one WordPress protection. Despite the name change, it remains one of the most trusted solutions in the WordPress ecosystem, with over 1 million active installations.
The goal of Solid Security is to make website security simple and effective. Unlike some plugins that overwhelm users with complex configurations, Solid Security offers predefined security templates for different types of websites—blogs, eCommerce stores, membership sites, and more. This allows even non-technical users to apply the right level of protection with minimal effort.
At its core, the plugin focuses on brute force protection, login security, file change detection, and site hardening. Features like two-factor authentication (2FA), reCAPTCHA integration, and strong password enforcement give administrators powerful tools to block unauthorized access.
In short, Solid Security is a rebranded but reliable evolution of iThemes Security, combining ease of use with essential protections to safeguard WordPress websites of all sizes in 2025.
Why Choose Solid Security?
With so many WordPress security plugins available, you might wonder why Solid Security deserves a spot on your website. The answer lies in its focus on simplicity, login protection, and site hardening. Unlike some plugins that require complex setups or heavy server resources, Solid Security is designed to be lightweight, beginner-friendly, and effective.
One of its standout advantages is brute force protection. Since login pages are the most common attack point for WordPress sites, Solid Security blocks repeated login attempts, enforces strong passwords, and allows administrators to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) or even passwordless logins. These features make it much harder for hackers to break into your site.
Solid Security also includes file change detection, reCAPTCHA integration, and automated database backups, giving you an extra layer of confidence. Its security templates let you apply the right settings for different site types—whether you’re running a blog, WooCommerce store, or membership community.
For users who value ease of use, login defense, and practical WordPress hardening, Solid Security is an excellent choice in 2025. It doesn’t try to be everything, but it delivers reliable, focused protection where most sites need it most.
Key Features of Solid Security
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) is built around the idea of practical WordPress protection—focusing on the most common attack points rather than trying to cover every possible security angle. Its tools are designed to prevent unauthorized logins, detect suspicious activity, and harden WordPress against known vulnerabilities. Here are its key features in 2025.
1. Brute Force Protection
Login pages are one of the most common entry points for hackers. Solid Security blocks repeated failed login attempts, locking out suspicious IP addresses after too many tries. This brute force prevention system significantly reduces the risk of automated attacks.
2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
To strengthen login security, Solid Security supports two-factor authentication (2FA). Users can verify logins with an authenticator app or email confirmation, ensuring that even if passwords are stolen, hackers cannot gain access.
3. Passwordless Login
Solid Security also supports passwordless authentication, letting users log in securely without entering a password. This reduces the risk of stolen credentials while offering a smoother experience for administrators and users.
4. Strong Password Enforcement
Weak passwords remain a major vulnerability for WordPress sites. With Solid Security, administrators can enforce strong password requirements for all users, ensuring better baseline security across accounts.
5. reCAPTCHA Integration
To stop automated bots from abusing login forms, comment forms, or registration pages, Solid Security integrates Google reCAPTCHA. This prevents spam and unauthorized account creation while keeping user interaction smooth.
6. File Change Detection
Hackers often insert malicious code into files without a site owner’s knowledge. Solid Security includes file integrity monitoring, which scans your WordPress files for unauthorized changes and alerts you immediately. This helps catch infections before they spread.
7. Security Templates
One of Solid Security’s most beginner-friendly features is its predefined security templates. Instead of manually configuring dozens of settings, you can choose a template for your site type—blog, business website, WooCommerce store, or membership site. The plugin then applies recommended protections automatically.
8. Database Backups
While Solid Security is not a full backup plugin, it includes an option to schedule database backups. This ensures you always have a recovery point in case of a hack or unexpected data loss.
9. Site Hardening Tools
Solid Security helps lock down common WordPress vulnerabilities through hardening options like:
- Disabling file editing within the WordPress dashboard.
- Restricting access to sensitive files.
- Limiting user role capabilities.
These measures reduce the chances of attackers exploiting weaknesses in your setup.
10. User Management & Role-Based Security
For sites with multiple contributors, Solid Security provides tools to manage user roles and permissions. Admins can enforce stricter rules for higher-level accounts and monitor login activity across all users.
11. Security Logs & Notifications
The plugin records activity in detailed security logs, tracking login attempts, lockouts, and file changes. You also receive email alerts for suspicious activity, helping you act quickly before issues escalate.
12. Malware Scanning (Pro)
In its Pro version, Solid Security adds scheduled malware scans that check for infections and vulnerabilities. While not as advanced as Wordfence or Sucuri’s scanning, it provides useful automated protection for small and medium sites.
How to Set Up Solid Security (Step-by-Step Guide)
One of Solid Security’s biggest strengths is its simplicity. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced WordPress user, the plugin guides you through essential steps to harden your website. Here’s a complete step-by-step setup guide.
Step 1: Install and Activate the Plugin
- Log into your WordPress dashboard.
- Go to Plugins → Add New.
- Search for “Solid Security” (formerly iThemes Security).
- Click Install Now, then Activate.
Once activated, you’ll see a new Security tab in your dashboard.
Step 2: Run the Security Check
Solid Security includes a Security Check wizard that quickly applies recommended settings.
- Go to Security → Security Check.
- Click Secure Site.
- The wizard enables brute force protection, file monitoring, and other baseline defenses.
This is the fastest way to lock down common vulnerabilities.
Step 3: Configure Brute Force Protection
Brute force attacks are among the most common WordPress threats.
- Go to Security → Settings → Local Brute Force Protection.
- Set a limit for failed login attempts (e.g., 5).
- Enable automatic IP lockouts for repeated failed attempts.
This prevents bots from guessing passwords endlessly.
Step 4: Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
To add an extra layer of login security:
- Go to Security → Settings → Two-Factor Authentication.
- Enable 2FA for administrator accounts (highly recommended).
- Choose the method: authenticator app, email code, or backup codes.
This ensures that even if a password is stolen, attackers can’t log in.
Step 5: Set Up reCAPTCHA
Protect login and registration forms from bots:
- Go to Security → Settings → reCAPTCHA.
- Enter your Google reCAPTCHA site key and secret key (generated from Google’s reCAPTCHA admin console).
- Apply reCAPTCHA to logins, comments, and registration forms.
Step 6: Configure File Change Detection
Solid Security monitors your core WordPress files for changes.
- Go to Security → Settings → File Change Detection.
- Enable file scanning to receive alerts when files are modified.
- Exclude cache or log files to reduce false positives.
Step 7: Apply a Security Template
For ease of use, Solid Security offers predefined security templates.
- Go to Security → Settings → Security Templates.
- Choose the template that best fits your site:
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Blog
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eCommerce store (WooCommerce)
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Membership site
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Portfolio/business site
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The plugin automatically applies the recommended rules.
Step 8: Enforce Strong Passwords
Weak passwords are a major vulnerability.
- Go to Security → Settings → Password Requirements.
- Require strong passwords for all users.
- Force password expiration for admin accounts.
Step 9: Schedule Backups
Solid Security includes basic database backup tools.
- Go to Security → Settings → Backups.
- Schedule automated backups (daily or weekly).
- Choose whether to store backups locally or send them via email.
Step 10: Review Logs and Notifications
- Navigate to Security → Logs to review login attempts, lockouts, and file changes.
- Configure email notifications to receive alerts for suspicious activity.
Step 11: Upgrade to Solid Security Pro (Optional)
If you upgrade, you’ll unlock additional features such as:
- Scheduled malware scans.
- Advanced user role management.
- Additional 2FA options.
- Priority support.
Enter your license key under Security → License to activate Pro features.
Solid Security Pricing in 2025
When evaluating a security plugin, pricing is a key factor. Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) offers both a free version with essential protections and a Pro version with advanced features designed for growing websites and businesses.
Free Version
The free plugin includes strong baseline protections such as:
- Brute force protection
- Two-factor authentication (2FA)
- reCAPTCHA integration
- File change detection
- Basic site hardening tools
For personal blogs and small websites, the free plan provides a solid foundation.
Pro Version
Solid Security Pro starts at $99/year for one site and scales up with discounted multi-site packages. Pro features include:
- Scheduled malware scanning
- Passwordless login options
- Advanced user role security
- Detailed activity logs and reports
- Priority support
Is It Worth It?
The free version is great for beginners, but businesses, eCommerce stores, and membership sites will benefit most from Pro. At $99/year, Solid Security remains one of the more affordable premium WordPress security solutions, balancing features with accessibility.
Pros and Cons of Solid Security
Like every WordPress plugin, Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these helps you decide whether it’s the right fit for your website in 2025.
Pros of Solid Security
1. Strong Login Protection: Solid Security excels at defending login pages with brute force protection, two-factor authentication (2FA), passwordless login, and reCAPTCHA integration. These tools make it far more difficult for hackers to gain unauthorized access.
2. Beginner-Friendly Setup: With its Security Check wizard and preconfigured templates, even non-technical users can apply the right security settings quickly. This makes it ideal for beginners and small business owners.
3. File Change Detection: The plugin actively monitors your WordPress files and alerts you to any suspicious changes—helping you catch malware infections early.
4. Affordable Pro Version: At $99/year, Solid Security Pro is one of the most affordable premium security plugins, especially compared to competitors like Sucuri.
Cons of Solid Security
1. No Built-In Firewall: Unlike Wordfence or Sucuri, Solid Security does not include a web application firewall (WAF). This means it cannot filter traffic before it reaches your server.
2. Limited Malware Cleanup: While Pro offers malware scanning, it lacks professional malware cleanup services. Users may need third-party support if their site is hacked.
3. Fewer Advanced Features: Compared to all-in-one security platforms, Solid Security focuses mostly on login protection and hardening. Advanced users may find it less comprehensive.
Solid Security vs Other Security Plugins
When choosing a WordPress security plugin, it’s important to understand how different solutions compare. While Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) is strong in certain areas, alternatives like Wordfence, Sucuri, and MalCare each bring unique strengths. Let’s explore how they stack up.
Solid Security vs Wordfence
Wordfence is often the first plugin people think of when it comes to WordPress security. It combines an endpoint firewall with a powerful malware scanner, making it a more comprehensive security solution than Solid Security. Wordfence also offers live traffic monitoring and real-time updates in its premium version.
Solid Security, by contrast, focuses heavily on login protection and site hardening. Features like two-factor authentication, passwordless logins, and brute force defense are its biggest strengths. However, it lacks a dedicated firewall or malware cleanup service.
Choose Wordfence if you want a full firewall and malware scanning suite. Choose Solid Security if you need strong, lightweight login protection without extra server load.
Solid Security vs Sucuri
Sucuri is more than just a plugin—it’s a full-service security platform. Its cloud-based firewall (WAF) blocks malicious traffic before it even reaches your server, while its built-in CDN improves performance. Premium plans also include unlimited malware cleanup by experts, something Solid Security does not offer.
Solid Security’s advantage lies in its affordability and ease of use. Many small websites don’t need enterprise-level DDoS protection or expert cleanup, and Solid Security offers reliable login defense at a lower cost.
Choose Sucuri if you want hands-off protection, performance boosts, and expert malware removal. Choose Solid Security if you want a budget-friendly option focused on WordPress hardening.
Solid Security vs MalCare
MalCare is popular for its automatic malware removal and lightweight performance. Unlike Wordfence or Solid Security, MalCare runs its scans on external servers, so it doesn’t impact your hosting resources. With one-click malware cleanup, it’s ideal for non-technical users.
Solid Security, on the other hand, doesn’t offer automated cleanup. Instead, it emphasizes preventive measures like login security and file change detection. It’s more about stopping attacks before they happen, while MalCare is better at cleaning up infections quickly.
Choose MalCare if you value easy malware cleanup and minimal server impact. Choose Solid Security if your priority is login defense and WordPress hardening.
Bottom Line on Comparisons
- Wordfence offers the most comprehensive free and premium features, including a firewall and malware scanner.
- Sucuri delivers enterprise-grade protection with a cloud-based firewall, CDN, and expert malware cleanup.
- MalCare focuses on lightweight scanning and one-click malware removal.
- Solid Security prioritizes ease of use, login protection, and affordability.
In 2025, Solid Security stands out as an excellent choice for small to medium websites, bloggers, freelancers, and eCommerce stores that need strong login defense without the complexity or higher cost of full-service platforms.
Who Should Use Solid Security in 2025?
Not every WordPress site requires the same level of security. Some need enterprise-grade firewalls, while others simply need reliable protection against brute force attacks and weak passwords. Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) is best suited for users who want practical, lightweight, and easy-to-manage protection without investing in expensive enterprise solutions.
1. Bloggers and Small Website Owners
For personal blogs, portfolios, and small business websites, Solid Security provides an affordable way to secure logins and protect against the most common WordPress vulnerabilities. The free version alone covers brute force prevention, 2FA, and file change detection, making it an excellent starting point.
2. eCommerce Stores and Membership Sites
WooCommerce and membership sites deal with sensitive customer data and frequent logins. Features like two-factor authentication, passwordless login, and reCAPTCHA help safeguard accounts and reduce the risk of compromised user data.
3. Freelancers and Agencies
Agencies or freelancers managing client sites benefit from Solid Security’s security templates and easy setup wizard, which streamline the process of applying best practices across multiple projects.
4. Users Who Value Simplicity
Solid Security is particularly well-suited for non-technical users who want essential protection without complex configurations. Its guided setup and templates ensure that strong security measures are applied with minimal effort.
Is Solid Security the Right Choice for Your WordPress Site?
After a thorough Solid Security (iThemes Security) Review, it’s clear that this plugin remains a reliable option for WordPress users in 2025. While it doesn’t try to be an all-in-one enterprise solution like Sucuri or Wordfence, it excels at what most site owners need most: login protection, brute force prevention, and WordPress hardening.
For small to medium-sized websites, bloggers, freelancers, and eCommerce store owners, Solid Security offers an accessible way to secure a WordPress site without overwhelming you with technical complexity. Features like two-factor authentication (2FA), passwordless login, reCAPTCHA integration, and file change detection address the most common vulnerabilities WordPress users face. Its security templates and setup wizard make applying best practices quick and easy, even for non-technical users.
That said, it’s important to note what Solid Security doesn’t provide. It lacks a web application firewall (WAF) and doesn’t include expert malware cleanup services, both of which are available with premium competitors like Sucuri. Websites running on shared hosting with high traffic or those that process sensitive customer data at scale may benefit from the extra protection offered by more advanced tools.
Where Solid Security shines is in its affordability and simplicity. At just $99/year for Pro, it remains one of the most budget-friendly premium security plugins. For many site owners, the peace of mind it delivers—without slowing down a website or requiring constant maintenance—makes it a worthy investment.
In conclusion, this Solid Security (iThemes Security) Review confirms that the plugin is best suited for WordPress users who prioritize login protection, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness. If you need enterprise-level protection, you might consider alternatives, but for the vast majority of WordPress websites, Solid Security is indeed the right choice in 2025.
FAQs: Solid Security (iThemes Security) Review
1. What happened to iThemes Security?
iThemes Security was rebranded as Solid Security after iThemes was acquired by Liquid Web. The plugin remains the same but with updated branding and features.
2. Is Solid Security free?
Yes, Solid Security offers a free version that includes brute force protection, two-factor authentication (2FA), reCAPTCHA integration, and file change detection.
3. Does Solid Security include a firewall?
No. Unlike Wordfence or Sucuri, Solid Security does not include a web application firewall (WAF). It focuses mainly on login security and WordPress hardening.
4. What extra features come with Solid Security Pro?
The Pro version ($99/year) includes scheduled malware scans, passwordless login, advanced user role security, detailed activity logs, and priority support.
5. Does Solid Security slow down websites?
No. Solid Security is relatively lightweight compared to firewall-based plugins since it doesn’t run heavy scans on your server. It’s well-suited for shared hosting.
6. Is Solid Security enough for eCommerce sites?
For small to medium WooCommerce stores, yes—features like 2FA, reCAPTCHA, and password enforcement help secure customer accounts. Larger stores may need additional firewall protection from tools like Sucuri.
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