How to Change WP Admin Login URL and Why You Should Do It

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Why Change the WP Admin Login URL?
3. Method 1: Using a Security Plugin to Change Login URL
4. Method 2: Manually Changing Login URL via Functions.php
5. Method 3: Using .htaccess to Modify Login URL
6. Important Considerations
7. Conclusion
8. Introduction:
   WordPress is the most widely used content management system globally, making it a prime target for hackers attempting to gain unauthorized access to websites. One effective way to enhance the security of your WordPress site is to change the default WP Admin login URL. By doing so, you can deter many brute force attacks and unauthorized login attempts. In this guide, we will explore the methods to change the WP Admin login URL and understand why it’s crucial for your website’s security.
9. Why Change the WP Admin Login URL?
   The default WordPress Admin login URL is typically set as “/wp-admin” or “/wp-login.php,” making it an easy target for hackers. By changing the login URL, you add an extra layer of security, as attackers won’t know the new login page location. This helps protect your site from brute force attacks and reduces the chances of unauthorized access to your admin dashboard.
10. Method 1: Using a Security Plugin to Change Login URL:
    Step 1: Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard.
    Step 2: Navigate to “Plugins” in the left sidebar and click on “Add New.”
    Step 3: Search for a reputable security plugin like “WPS Hide Login” or “iThemes Security.”
    Step 4: Install and activate the chosen plugin.
    Step 5: Once activated, go to the plugin’s settings (usually found under “Settings” or “Security”).
    Step 6: Look for the option to change the login URL.
    Step 7: Enter the desired custom login URL and save the changes.
11. Method 2: Manually Changing Login URL via Functions.php:
    Step 1: Access your website’s files using an FTP client or cPanel File Manager.
    Step 2: Locate the functions.php file for your active theme (usually found in wp-content/themes/your-theme-name/).
    Step 3: Download a backup copy of the functions.php file for safety.
    Step 4: Open the functions.php file using a text editor.
    Step 5: Add the following code snippet at the end of the file:

// Change WP Admin login URL function custom_login_url() { return home_url( '/custom-login-url' ); } add_filter( 'login_url', 'custom_login_url' );

Step 6: Replace “/custom-login-url” with your desired custom login URL.
Step 7: Save the changes and upload the updated functions.php file back to your server.

5. Method 3: Using .htaccess to Modify Login URL:
   Step 1: Access your website’s files using an FTP client or cPanel File Manager.
   Step 2: Locate the .htaccess file in the root directory of your WordPress installation.
   Step 3: Download a backup copy of the .htaccess file for safety.
   Step 4: Open the .htaccess file using a text editor.
   Step 5: Add the following code snippet at the end of the file:

# Change WP Admin login URL RewriteRule ^custom-login-url$ /wp-login.php [NC,L]

Step 6: Replace “/custom-login-url” with your desired custom login URL.
Step 7: Save the changes and upload the updated .htaccess file back to your server.

6. Important Considerations:

• Choose a unique and memorable custom login URL, but avoid using common phrases or easily guessable strings.
• Always make a backup of the files you are modifying to prevent accidental issues.
• Test the new login URL thoroughly to ensure it works as expected before logging out of your admin dashboard.
• If you use a security plugin for this purpose, keep the plugin updated to ensure compatibility with future WordPress versions.

6. Conclusion:
   Changing the default WP Admin login URL is a simple yet effective method to enhance the security of your WordPress website. By implementing any of the provided methods in this guide, you can add an extra layer of protection against brute force attacks and unauthorized login attempts. Remember that maintaining a secure website requires regular updates, strong passwords, and other security measures in addition to changing the login URL. Stay vigilant and proactive in safeguarding your WordPress site from potential threats.