10 Best WordPress Security Plugins with Real-Time Monitoring

Your WordPress site may run slow, show strange files, or log odd logins. Hackers hunt weak passwords and old plugins, they hide malicious code and backdoors. A malware scanner and a web application firewall can act like a smoke alarm, spotting threats and blocking ddos attacks and brute force attacks in real time.

39% of hacked WordPress sites ran outdated software, and WordPress powers most hacked CMS sites.

This post lists the 10 best wordpress security plugins with real-time monitoring. I cover Sucuri Security, Wordfence, MalCare, Jetpack, WPScan, and more, and I note firewall protection, malware scanning, file integrity monitoring, two-factor authentication, login protection, and spam protection.

You will get clear notes on features, performance impact, and when to use a CDN or a host firewall. Read on.

Key Takeaways

• 39% of hacked WordPress sites ran outdated software; use a WAF, malware scanner, file integrity monitoring, activity logs, 2FA, and backups.
• Top plugins: Sucuri ($299.99/yr), Wordfence ($149/yr), MalCare ($149/yr/site), Jetpack ($29.95/mo), Patchstack ($828/yr minimum for 25 sites).
• Ratings vary: Wordfence and All-In-One 4.7/5, MalCare 4.3, SecuPress 4.1, Patchstack 4.9; server-level WAFs can raise CPU on busy sites.
• Run WPScan for vulnerability scans and use Patchstack for real-time virtual patches to shrink exploit windows and automate fixes.

Sucuri Security

Sucuri Security guards WordPress sites like a hired watchdog, blocking bad traffic and spotting file changes fast. Read on to see how its web application firewall (WAF), malware scanner, CDN support, and activity log stop malware, SQL injection, and brute force attacks on WordPress.org installs.

Key features: Malware scanning, auditing, and security hardening

Many wordpress security plugins claim protection, this offering delivers all-in-one defense for WordPress sites. It pairs malware scanning, activity auditing, and security hardening.

1. Deep malware scans run with a proprietary malware scanner and the SiteCheck scanner, the tool matches a large vulnerability database, it spots viruses and malware quickly for prompt malware detection.
2. Top-tier removal tools clear infections after detection, the service completes cleanup and removes backdoors, the process supports fast recovery and safer site operation.
3. A WAF blocks SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and brute force attacks, the proprietary firewall filters traffic before WordPress core sees it, this lowers exposure to ddos attacks.
4. Continuous auditing tracks file edits, plugin changes, and login events, the activity log highlights unauthorized access and aids security auditing and incident review.
5. Hardening checks run in both free and paid versions, they tighten file permissions, disable risky PHP execution, and add login protection to reduce brute force attacks.
6. File change detection flags altered core files and theme edits, alerts land in the dashboard, file integrity monitoring speeds malware detection and cut recovery time.
7. Real-time monitoring operates 24/7, the SiteCheck scanner supports external checks used by the Solid Security Pro plugin, quick alerts catch exploit attempts and suspicious traffic.
8. Integrations work with CDNs and Cloudflare’s services, routing through a DNS-level firewall can boost ddos protection, and it eases load on WordPress hosting.
9. Paid plans start from $299.99/year and add advanced firewall rules, faster support, and expanded malware scanning, site owners receive professional response and ongoing security updates.

Benefits for real-time monitoring

Sucuri sends real-time alerts for security incidents, and logs events in the activity log so you spot issues fast. The web application firewall and activity auditing block SQL injection and brute force attacks, they add firewall protection, bot protection, and malware scanning that pairs with a malware scanner.

Paid plans add comprehensive real-time dashboards that show security logs, file integrity monitoring, and malware scanner results on one screen.

The support team responds fast in a crisis, they help with malware removal and cleanup. Security pros recommend Sucuri as the best comprehensive solution for real-time protection among wordpress security plugins, it pairs content delivery network checks, SSL certificate monitoring, and strong login protection like two-factor authentication (2fa).

Wordfence Security

Wordfence Security stops attacks in real time, using a WAF, a malware scanner, and IP blocking. It locks down logins with 2FA, blocks brute force bots, and keeps a clear activity log, so you spot trouble fast.

Real-time threat defense and login protection

Real-time threat defense stops attacks as they happen.
Login protection blocks repeated failed attempts, it locks out bad actors fast.

1. Deep scans hunt malware across core, themes, and plugins, the built-in malware scanner flags infected files fast and checks a large vulnerability database for plugin vulnerabilities.
2. IP blocking cuts off repeat attackers and hostile bots, firewall protection at the network edge blocks abusive addresses and reduces brute force attacks, it lowers server load.
3. Brute force protection limits login attempts, it triggers login lockdown after failed tries, and it raises login security to stop credential stuffing and password-guessing attacks.
4. Two-factor authentication, or 2fa, forces a second code for logins, this pairs with strong passwords and session management to harden access and stop automated attacks.
5. Activity logs record every login and change, the live activity log aids security audits and post-attack review, it shows who tried to log in and when.
6. File integrity monitoring spots altered files quickly, alerts fire on changed core or theme files, this catches injected malware early and speeds recovery with backups.
7. Security pros cite this plugin as best for beginners needing robust protection, premium plans start from $149/year, paid users get web application firewall updates, priority support, and faster patching.

Advanced firewall and malware scanner

Wordfence packs a server firewall and a solid malware scanner. It gives real-time protection and alerts, with a 4.7 out of 5 rating on WordPress.org.

1. Enable the server-level web application firewall, it blocks SQL injection and cross-site scripting before PHP runs. Expect firewall protection, but plan for higher CPU use on very busy sites.
2. Run the advanced malware scanner, it checks themes, plugins, and core files with real-time updates. Set daily scans to catch plugin vulnerabilities and theme vulnerabilities fast.
3. Turn on login protection, use two-factor authentication and login lockdown for brute force attack protection. Keep strong passwords, enable IP blocking, and monitor the activity log for odd sign-ins.
4. Watch file integrity monitoring alerts, they spot unexpected file changes before damage spreads. Use scanner reports to guide manual cleanups or hire a malware removal service.
5. Set alerts for malware scanner updates, the tool pushes real-time signatures to catch new threats. Keep Wordfence free or premium features active, both offer updated scans and alerts.
6. Plan for performance impact on high-traffic sites, the server firewall runs at server level, not DNS, and can raise resource use. Consider managed WordPress hosting or test on staging before full deployment.
7. Use the 4.7/5 rating on WordPress.org as a guide, many users praise the firewall and scanner. Read reviews, test features, and watch for false positives in the activity log.

MalCare Security

MalCare uses a powerful malware scanner to spot hidden threats on your WP site, it flags odd file changes and strange traffic fast. It removes infections with a single action, and pairs with a WAF and 2FA to stop brute force attacks, and lock down logins.

One-click malware removal

Click once, a malware scanner runs a full site sweep, and it flags infected files in real time. The MalCare plugin delivers one-click malware removal in its premium offering. Deep malware cleanup comes with paid plans starting at $149/year/site.

It suits users seeking fast, automated threat cleanup, and it pairs with firewall protection, like a web application firewall (WAF), file integrity monitoring, and other wordpress security plugins.

That setup works with WordPress core, themes, and plugin vulnerabilities, so you get real-time website scanning and protection without heavy manual work.

Real-time website scanning and protection

Real-time website scanning spots threats as they emerge, and it acts fast to stop them. This core feature runs continuous malware scanning, with a malware scanner and file integrity monitoring that flag changed files, SQL injection attacks, and cross-site scripting.

It blocks suspicious traffic proactively, using firewall protection and a web application firewall (WAF), to cut brute force attacks and DDoS attacks.

Dashboards give instant alerts and status updates, and admins see activity log entries, login protection events, and malware removal notes in Sucuri Security, Wordfence Security, and MalCare Security.

Many users rate real-time protection 4.3/5 on WP.org, a sign that fast scans and proactive blocking keep sites safer.

All In One WP Security & Firewall

All In One WP Security & Firewall boosts login protection, brute force protection, .htaccess hardening, and file integrity monitoring on your WordPress site.

The add-on runs a web application firewall, logs activity in real time, and helps spot malware and blocked ddos attacks, while playing nice with SSL certificates and DNS-level firewall setups.

Comprehensive security settings for enhanced protection

The All-In-One WP Security & Firewall plugin offers comprehensive security grading and firewall features. It includes login lockdown, file integrity monitoring, an application-level firewall, a free version, and a Pro plan from $70 per month.

• Use the security grading system to spot weak settings and rank fixes, it flags low scores, guides security hardening, and helps you pick which wordpress security plugins features to enable first.
• Turn on the application-level firewall, it blocks SQL injection and cross-site scripting attempts. This web app firewall layer stops many exploits before they touch your theme or plugins.
• Enable login lockdown and 2fa to stop brute force attacks, add login protection, and block suspicious IPs. The activity log records attempts, and helps with security auditing after a breach.
• Set file integrity monitoring to detect tampered files, the system alerts you on changes and links to a malware scanner for fast response. Keep DB backups ready to restore clean states.
• Run scheduled scans and use an anti-malware tool, aim for daily checks to catch threats quickly. Link SSL certificates and firewall protection to cut phishing and bot traffic.
• Activate the activity log, track admin moves and plugin installs, this helps spot odd behavior fast. Use security auditing to trace changes and speed incident response.
• Monitor performance impact, toggle modules to balance speed and safety, the free version fits many sites, the Pro plan starts from $70 per month for premium tools and support.
• Upgrade to Pro for scheduled DB backups, priority malware removal, stronger firewall rules, and extra threat intelligence, this helps high-traffic sites that need faster recovery and solid web security.

Real-time monitoring capabilities

File integrity monitoring spots changed files fast, and login tracking records every access in an activity log. Email alerts notify you of suspicious or unauthorized activity, so you can act before damage spreads.

Security dashboards update users on site status and threats. They show malware scanner results and Web Application Firewall events. A 4.7/5 rating on WP.org proves people trust these wordpress security plugins for real-time monitoring and login protection.

BulletProof Security

BulletProof Security hardens .htaccess, blocks brute force attacks and login bots, and spots SQL injection attempts fast, like a bouncer at the door. Its file change detection and anti-malware tools run in real time, they alert you to suspicious edits and give one-click clean options.

.htaccess hardening and login monitoring

Here are practical steps for .htaccess hardening and login monitoring. I keep each tip short, direct, and ready to act on.

1. Use .htaccess server-level rules to block bad IPs, file requests, and SQL injection attempts on Apache or compatible webservers; BulletProof Security provides this server-level protection to stop many threats before WordPress loads.
2. Set login monitoring to log failed attempts, IPs, and security logs; the plugin can lock accounts after repeated brute force attacks, the login lockdown cuts bot traffic fast.
3. Enable two-factor authentication (2fa) and strong passwords to block credential theft; pair 2fa with a honeypot and IP blocking for layered login protection.
4. Turn on file integrity monitoring to catch changed plugins, themes, and core files; run a malware scanner often, and use one-click malware removal to restore clean files quickly.
5. Pick advanced settings if you are a technical user; the plugin gives granular control, offers a one-click setup to simplify initial configuration, and costs $69.95 as a one-time fee for unlimited use.
6. Combine .htaccess rules with a web application firewall, malware scanner, and IP blocking to cut DDoS vectors, stop cross-site scripting attempts, and harden WordPress site security.

Effective malware prevention features

This plugin packs file backup and a malware scanner into a clean interface. It runs malware scanning on demand, and it keeps automated backup copies of your site. No firewall ships with the tool, so prevention centers on file integrity monitoring, file change detection, and .htaccess rules.

Developers fixed over 100 known plugin conflicts to keep themes and plugins playing nice. The pro version boosts prevention with extra monitoring tools, deeper malware scanning, and more backup options.

Jetpack Security

Jetpack Security stores live backups, logs activity, and alerts you on file changes. It blocks brute force attacks, runs malware scans, adds two-factor authentication, and pairs with WordPress hosting and an SSL certificate, read more to see the anti-spam engine and site restore tool in action.

Real-time backups and activity monitoring

Get live backups, and restore with one click.
Activity logs spot edits, installs, and user logins, and they send fast alerts.

• The Jetpack Security plugin offers live backups and one-click restores, and real-time backup capabilities are a key differentiator; premium plans start from $29.95/month, with automated daily backups and fast recovery.
• Use activity monitoring to record file edits, plugin updates, and admin actions; the activity log ties events to users, and it flags unexpected changes or suspicious installs.
• Keep offsite site database backups and snapshots in cloud storage, so you recover from corrupt updates, sql injection attacks, or failed plugin updates with minimal downtime.
• Store incremental snapshots in real time, cut performance impact, and limit storage costs, which helps site speed while guarding against data loss.
• Check alerts on email and mobile, lock accounts after brute force attacks, and add two-factor authentication (2fa) plus login protection and ip blocking for stronger login security.
• Pair real-time backups with a malware scanner and file integrity monitoring; this helps fast malware removal, clear activity log records, and reliable file change detection for audits.
• Expect compatibility with web application firewall, TLS certificates, and bot protection; DNS-level filtering, WAF tools, and other defenses stop DDoS attacks, sql injection, and cross-site scripting.

Spam protection and brute force attack prevention

Spam filters stop unwanted comments and signups. Brute force protection locks login forms against mass attacks.

1. Use integrated spam protection to block unwanted comments and signups, with CAPTCHA and bot protection, plus activity log entries that record blocked attempts. Many plugins offer free and premium plans, premium adds advanced spam filters and tools.
2. Activate brute force protection to shield login forms from mass attacks, with rate limits and login lockdown. Add two-factor authentication (2fa) and strong passwords for layered login protection.
3. Deploy a web application firewall, or a DNS-level firewall, to stop automated hits and DDoS attacks before they reach your site. This firewall protection reduces exploit detection load on your server.
4. Turn on activity log and file integrity monitoring to spot suspicious logins and changed files fast. Mixed user feedback gives some plugins a 3.7/5 rating on WP.org, so verify logs in real use.
5. Block abusive IPs with IP blocking and geo-blocking rules, and pair that with bot protection to cut spam and brute force traffic. Use login lockdown windows for repeated offenders, keep traffic manageable.
6. Pick plugins that include CAPTCHA, spam protection, and anti-spammer tools, plus automated alerts to email or dashboard. Free tiers cover basics, premium tiers add malware scanner links and advanced firewall protection.
7. Test settings on a staging site, update plugins, themes, and WordPress core often to close vulnerabilities like SQL injection and cross-site scripting. Combine plugin tools with solid hosting, and use activity logs for audits.

WPScan – WordPress Security Scanner

WPScan scans WP sites for plugin and theme vulnerabilities, and it taps a massive vulnerability database. Run WPScan with WP-CLI or the API, tie it to wordpress security plugins for real-time monitoring, automatic alerts, and file integrity checks.

Vulnerability detection through real-time scans

This scanner, WPScan, specializes in real-time scans of WordPress core, plugins, and themes. It spots plugin vulnerabilities and theme vulnerabilities, it flags outdated software on demand.

A comprehensive, regularly updated vulnerability database powers the scans. Site owners get fast alerts, they can run a malware scanner or patch add-ons to stop security vulnerabilities and cut brute force attacks, keeping wordpress security plugins and firewalls useful.

Database of known WordPress vulnerabilities

A vast vulnerability database powers fast, accurate scans across extensions and templates. WPScan and other security tools pull CVE and NVD feeds, and they drive real-time scans and exploit detection.

The live feed keeps malware scanning and vulnerability checks up to date, catching both common flaws and emerging threats. Site owners get alerts, and they can fix extension vulnerabilities or template bugs immediately, using wordpress security plugins and file change detection.

SecuPress

SecuPress works like a watchdog for your WordPress site, running fast anti-malware scans, tracking file changes, and logging odd activity so you can act quickly. Read the full SecuPress guide for 2FA setup, plugin vulnerability checks, web application firewall options, backup plans, and SSL certificate tips.

Real-time malware scanning and detailed reports

You get real-time malware scanning for WordPress sites through SecuPress, and it generates detailed security reports you can act on. The reports pull security logs, activity log entries, file change detection, and malware scanner hits, so you spot plugin vulnerabilities and theme vulnerabilities fast, like a hawk.

That mix makes it one of the top wordpress security plugins for malware scanning.

A premium plan starts from $120/year, and users rate it 4.1 out of 5 on WP.org for reporting and monitoring. Pair those reports with a web application firewall, file integrity monitoring, and site database backups to cut risks from sql injection and cross-site scripting.

User-friendly interface for enhanced security

SecuPress puts controls on a clean dashboard, non-technical users can read it fast. The plugin links web application firewall, malware scanner, two-factor authentication, and file integrity monitoring, so site owners spot threats and act.

A clear activity log shows login attempts, blocked bots, and file changes.

Many site owners praise SecuPress for a user-friendly interface and simple dashboards that let them configure and monitor settings with no fuss. Design streamlines the process of securing a WordPress site, while Sucuri Security and other wordpress security plugins add firewall protection, DNS-level filtering, and one-click malware removal to speed recovery.

Shield Security

Shield Security watches your site in real time, with activity tracking and file change alerts that spot odd edits fast. It blocks brute force attacks, tightens login protection, adds two-factor authentication (2FA), and uses a web firewall plus an anti-malware scanner to stop many exploits.

Real-time activity tracking and hack prevention

I will cover real-time activity tracking and hack prevention for your WordPress site. Readers get clear, actionable steps to spot and stop intruders fast.

1. The Shield Security plugin records user and system activity in real time, it proactively prevents hacks by monitoring suspicious actions and access attempts, and it tracks changes while sending instant alerts for unauthorized activity.
2. It keeps a detailed activity log and security logs, so admins see who did what and when; that visibility helps spot brute force attacks, spammers, and login anomalies fast.
3. File integrity monitoring runs nonstop, it logs file change detection and alerts you to modified core, plugin, or theme files, helping stop SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and hidden malware before a malware scanner runs.
4. Pair live tracking with a web application firewall and DNS-level firewall, they block bad bots, reduce DDoS attacks, and filter exploit attempts aimed at plugin vulnerabilities and theme vulnerabilities.
5. Add two-factor authentication (2fa), strong passwords, IP blocking, and login protection to the mix, these controls lock doors after suspicious access attempts and shrink the window for successful hacks.
6. Link activity feeds to vulnerability scanners like WPScan and patch services such as Patchstack, this plugs gaps quickly, reduces exposure to plugin and theme flaws, and supports exploit detection workflows.
7. Keep alerts tied to backups and incident response, send instant notices to admins, trigger automated daily backups or manual database backups, so you can revert changes and speed recovery after an intrusion.

File integrity monitoring and login protection

File integrity monitoring spots and reports unexpected file modifications.
Login protection limits login attempts, enforces strong passwords, and cuts brute-force and credential-stuffing attacks.

1. Sucuri Security scans with a fast malware scanner, records file change logs, and uses a DNS-level firewall plus SSL checks to flag suspicious edits immediately.
2. Wordfence Security uses a web application firewall to block threats, keeps an activity log for audits, and locks accounts after repeated failures to stop brute force attacks.
3. MalCare runs real-time website scans, performs one-click malware removal, and limits login attempts to block credential stuffing, so sites recover fast with low fuss.
4. All In One WP Security & Firewall enforces strong passwords, applies fine-grain login protection, and stores detailed login records for quick security audits and follow up.
5. BulletProof Security hardens .htaccess rules, watches login pages for rapid lockouts, and sends alerts on unexpected file edits to prevent silent compromises.
6. Jetpack Security keeps automated daily backups offsite, watches user activity for odd logins, and adds spam protection plus brute force protection for calmer nights.
7. WPScan checks plugins and themes against a large vulnerability database, flags known exploits, and links to Patchstack for fast, real-time patching and threat intelligence.
8. SecuPress runs scheduled malware scans, delivers clear security reports, and adds two-factor authentication for stronger login defense and faster incident response.
9. Shield Security tracks file integrity with change alerts, enforces IP blocking and rate limits, and protects logins to cut credential-stuffing and automated bot hits.

Patchstack

Patchstack delivers real-time patches for plugin and theme flaws, backed by threat intelligence and a live vulnerability database. Read on to learn how this WordPress security plugin finds plugin vulnerabilities, applies automated fixes, and cuts hack risk, like a digital bandage for your site.

Real-time vulnerability patching for plugins and themes

Real-time patching closes plugin and theme vulnerabilities the moment engineers spot a flaw. A vendor called Patchstack pushes hot fixes and virtual patches, using threat intelligence and a vulnerability database to roll out updates fast.

Pricing starts at $828 per year, for a minimum of 25 sites.

Site owners pair WordPress security plugins with an anti-malware scanner, firewall protection, file integrity monitoring, and activity logs to catch odd behavior. The service focuses on immediate response to discovered threats, shrinking the attack window and cutting the risk of DDoS, SQL injection, and cross-site scripting.

No one likes chasing exploits at midnight, so live patching keeps you calmer.

Threat intelligence for proactive security measures

Patchstack provides advanced threat intelligence, like a vigilant guard, to anticipate and counter new risks. The platform uses data-driven insights, to shape proactive security configurations and feed a vulnerability database for plugin vulnerabilities.

Users rate its threat intelligence 4.9 out of 5 on WP.org, which shows strong trust from site owners. Patchstack patches plugin vulnerabilities fast, and it feeds web application firewall rules, to cut exploit windows and lower malware scanning alerts.

Takeaways

Pick wordpress security plugins that add real-time monitoring, a malware scanner, and fast alerts. Choose a WAF provider like Sucuri Security for firewall protection, DNS-level firewall options, and quick cleanup.

Add Wordfence Security for real-time threat defense, login security, and brute force attack protection. Keep file integrity monitoring, activity log checks, and database backups as routine tasks.

Use two-factor authentication and strong passwords to lock down access.

FAQs on Best WordPress Security Plugins with Real-Time Monitoring

1. What do real-time monitoring plugins do for WordPress site security?

They watch your site, in real time, for threats. They run a malware scanner and malware scanning, spot file change detection and file integrity monitoring, and log events in an activity log and security logs. They flag exploit detection, sql injection and cross-site scripting attempts, and check a vulnerability database.

2. Which plugins give strong live protection?

Pick a web application firewall, a dns-level firewall, or a firewall protection plugin, like Wordfence Security or Sucuri Security. Try iThemes Security for login protection, or a security scanner, like Security Ninja, for audits. These tools block ddos attacks, bot protection, and brute force attacks, with ip blocking and login lockdown.

3. How do plugins stop malware and phishing attacks?

They run anti-malware security checks, and offer one-click malware removal or guided malware removal. They scan for phishing attacks, check themes and plugin vulnerabilities, and help with ssl certificate and ssl certificates for safer logins. They can also run automated daily backups and database backups, so you can restore fast.

4. How do plugins protect logins from brute force attacks?

They add login security, enforce strong passwords, and offer two-factor authentication, or two-factor authentication (2fa). They use brute force protection, login lockdown, and login protection rules, to stop repeated login tries before damage starts.

5. Will security plugins slow down my WordPress hosting?

Some do, yes, they add performance impact. A dns-level firewall can cut load, while heavy on-site scanning can tax the wordpress core. Look for ease of use, off-site malware scanning, and options to tune scans. Good hosting plus security hardening keeps speed up and protection solid.

6. How do I choose the right security plugin for my site?

Match features to risk. If you face sql injection attacks or cross-site scripting, pick a WAF and exploit detection. If you worry about plugins or theme vulnerabilities, choose tools with a vulnerability database and security auditing. If you need peace of mind, get malware scanning, file integrity monitoring, strong bot protection, and a plan for automated daily backups, and you will have solid, bulletproof security.