How to Install and Configure Wordfence Security Free Version

This guide will help you install and configure the free version of Wordfence Security plugin for WordPress.

Installation

Wordfence is included in all Kuva Media WordPress templates and hosting.

Initial Setup

1. After activation, click on "Wordfence" in the left sidebar
2. You'll be prompted to enter an email address for security alerts
3. Enter your email and click "Continue"
4. Skip the premium license key option by clicking "No Thanks"

Recommended Security Configuration

Firewall Settings

1. Go to Wordfence > Firewall
2. Under "Web Application Firewall Status," ensure it's enabled
3. Keep the default "Learning Mode" setting for 1 week
4. Set Firewall Rules to "Optimized"

Login Security

1. Navigate to Wordfence > Login Security
2. Enable "Enable reCAPTCHA on login"
3. Enable "Enforce strong passwords"
4. Set "Lock out after how many login failures" to 5
5. Set "Lock out for how long" to 5 minutes
6. Enable "Immediately lock out invalid usernames"

Scan Settings

1. Go to Wordfence > Scan
2. Enable all free options:
   • Scan core WordPress files
   • Scan plugin files
   • Scan theme files
   • Scan WordPress posts and comments
   • Check for abandoned plugins/themes
3. Set scan schedule to run once daily

Live Traffic Options

1. Navigate to Wordfence > Tools > Live Traffic
2. Enable "Live Traffic enabled"
3. Set "Traffic logging mode" to "Security Only"

Verification

1. Visit Wordfence > Dashboard
2. Verify that all enabled features show as "Active"
3. Check that the Firewall is running
4. Confirm scan schedule is set

Maintenance

• Review security alerts sent to your email
• Check scan results weekly
• Update Wordfence when prompted
• Monitor blocked attacks in the Live Traffic view

For additional support, visit Wordfence Documentation or contact Kuva Media support.