# Installing the Wordfence Security plugin

> Install the Wordfence Security plugin to add a firewall, malware scanning and login protection to your WordPress site.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/wordpress/guides/installing-the-wordfence-security-plugin/

The **Wordfence Security plugin** provides enterprise‑level protection for WordPress sites. It includes a firewall, malware scanner, and additional tools to safeguard your site against hackers, spam, and malicious traffic. On **ruachost.com**, you can install and configure Wordfence directly from your WordPress dashboard.

## Why Use Wordfence?

- Real‑time firewall protection against vulnerabilities.
- Malware scanning for core files, themes, and plugins.
- Blocks malicious IPs and brute‑force login attempts.
- Two‑factor authentication for stronger login security.
- Country blocking (premium feature).

## Installing Wordfence

1. **Log in to WordPress** as the administrator.
2. In the left‑hand menu, click **Plugins → Add New**.
3. In the search box, type **Wordfence Security**.
4. Locate the plugin and click **Install Now**.
5. After installation, click **Activate Plugin**.

✅ Wordfence is now installed.

## ⚙️ Configuring Wordfence

1. **Access Settings.**

   - In the WordPress dashboard, click **Wordfence → Dashboard**.
2. **Firewall Setup.**

   - Wordfence runs as an endpoint firewall, processing requests before WordPress code executes.
   - Configure firewall rules and enable extended protection if prompted.
3. **Malware Scanner.**

   - Run a scan to check for:

     - Malware in core files, themes, and plugins.
     - Bad URLs, code injections, and harmful redirects.
     - Outdated or closed plugins.
4. **Login Security.**

   - Enable **two‑factor authentication (2FA)**.
   - Enable **leaked password protection** to block compromised logins.
5. **Additional Features.**

   - Configure brute‑force protection.
   - Block aggressive crawlers.
   - (Premium) Block traffic from specific countries.

> **Note:**
- Wordfence is free, but premium features (like country blocking) require a license.
- Always update Wordfence to the latest version for maximum protection.
- Millions of sites use Wordfence, with over **20 million downloads** and protection against **25+ million daily attacks**.