{"id":2612,"date":"2026-09-29T19:05:26","date_gmt":"2026-09-29T13:35:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/?p=2612"},"modified":"2026-09-29T19:05:29","modified_gmt":"2026-09-29T13:35:29","slug":"how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Disable XML-RPC in WordPress?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_88 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#How_to_Disable_XML-RPC_in_WordPress\" >How to Disable XML-RPC in WordPress<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#What_Is_XML-RPC_in_WordPress\" >What Is XML-RPC in WordPress?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Why_Disable_XML-RPC_in_WordPress\" >Why Disable XML-RPC in WordPress?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#1_Reduce_the_Attack_Surface\" >1. Reduce the Attack Surface<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#2_Reduce_Automated_Abuse\" >2. Reduce Automated Abuse<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#3_Reduce_Pingback_Abuse\" >3. Reduce Pingback Abuse<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#4_Simplify_WordPress_Security\" >4. Simplify WordPress Security<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Should_You_Disable_XML-RPC\" >Should You Disable XML-RPC?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Check_Whether_XML-RPC_Is_Being_Used\" >Check Whether XML-RPC Is Being Used<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Method_1_Disable_XML-RPC_Using_a_WordPress_Security_Plugin\" >Method 1: Disable XML-RPC Using a WordPress Security Plugin<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_1_Create_a_Backup\" >Step 1: Create a Backup<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_2_Install_a_Trusted_Security_Plugin\" >Step 2: Install a Trusted Security Plugin<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_3_Find_XML-RPC_Settings\" >Step 3: Find XML-RPC Settings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_4_Disable_XML-RPC\" >Step 4: Disable XML-RPC<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_5_Save_the_Settings\" >Step 5: Save the Settings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_6_Test_the_Website\" >Step 6: Test the Website<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Method_2_Disable_XML-RPC_With_a_WordPress_Filter\" >Method 2: Disable XML-RPC With a WordPress Filter<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Important_Consideration\" >Important Consideration<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Method_3_Block_xmlrpcphp_at_the_Web_Server_Level\" >Method 3: Block xmlrpc.php at the Web Server Level<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Method_4_Block_XML-RPC_Using_a_Web_Application_Firewall\" >Method 4: Block XML-RPC Using a Web Application Firewall<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Method_5_Disable_XML-RPC_Through_Hosting_Security_Tools\" >Method 5: Disable XML-RPC Through Hosting Security Tools<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Disabling_XML-RPC_vs_Blocking_XML-RPC\" >Disabling XML-RPC vs Blocking XML-RPC<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Disable_XML-RPC\" >Disable XML-RPC<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Block_the_Endpoint\" >Block the Endpoint<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Protect_XML-RPC\" >Protect XML-RPC<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#What_Happens_After_XML-RPC_Is_Disabled\" >What Happens After XML-RPC Is Disabled?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#How_to_Check_Whether_XML-RPC_Is_Disabled\" >How to Check Whether XML-RPC Is Disabled<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#XML-RPC_and_Brute-Force_Attacks\" >XML-RPC and Brute-Force Attacks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#XML-RPC_and_Pingbacks\" >XML-RPC and Pingbacks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#XML-RPC_vs_REST_API\" >XML-RPC vs REST API<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#How_to_Disable_XML-RPC_Without_Breaking_Your_Website\" >How to Disable XML-RPC Without Breaking Your Website<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_1_Identify_Dependencies\" >Step 1: Identify Dependencies<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_2_Back_Up_the_Website\" >Step 2: Back Up the Website<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_3_Choose_the_Least_Complicated_Method\" >Step 3: Choose the Least Complicated Method<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_4_Disable_XML-RPC-2\" >Step 4: Disable XML-RPC<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_5_Test_Core_Functionality\" >Step 5: Test Core Functionality<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_6_Monitor_Logs\" >Step 6: Monitor Logs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Step_7_Keep_the_Configuration_Documented\" >Step 7: Keep the Configuration Documented<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Common_Problems_After_Disabling_XML-RPC\" >Common Problems After Disabling XML-RPC<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Problem_1_A_Mobile_App_Stops_Working\" >Problem 1: A Mobile App Stops Working<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-41\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Solution\" >Solution<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-42\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Problem_2_A_Third-Party_Integration_Stops_Publishing\" >Problem 2: A Third-Party Integration Stops Publishing<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-43\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Solution-2\" >Solution<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-44\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Problem_3_A_Plugin_Reports_an_XML-RPC_Error\" >Problem 3: A Plugin Reports an XML-RPC Error<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-45\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Solution-3\" >Solution<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-46\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Problem_4_htaccess_Changes_Break_the_Website\" >Problem 4: .htaccess Changes Break the Website<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-47\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Solution-4\" >Solution<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-48\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#How_to_Re-Enable_XML-RPC\" >How to Re-Enable XML-RPC<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-49\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Should_XML-RPC_Be_Completely_Disabled_or_Protected\" >Should XML-RPC Be Completely Disabled or Protected?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-50\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Additional_WordPress_Security_Measures\" >Additional WordPress Security Measures<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-51\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Keep_WordPress_Updated\" >Keep WordPress Updated<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-52\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Remove_Unused_Plugins\" >Remove Unused Plugins<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-53\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Use_Strong_Passwords\" >Use Strong Passwords<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-54\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Enable_Two-Factor_Authentication\" >Enable Two-Factor Authentication<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-55\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Protect_the_Login_Page\" >Protect the Login Page<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-56\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Use_a_Web_Application_Firewall\" >Use a Web Application Firewall<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-57\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Monitor_Administrator_Accounts\" >Monitor Administrator Accounts<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-58\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Maintain_Backups\" >Maintain Backups<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-59\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Scan_for_Malware\" >Scan for Malware<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-60\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Common_Mistakes_When_Disabling_XML-RPC\" >Common Mistakes When Disabling XML-RPC<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-61\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#1_Disabling_It_Without_Checking_Dependencies\" >1. Disabling It Without Checking Dependencies<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-62\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#2_Editing_WordPress_Core_Files\" >2. Editing WordPress Core Files<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-63\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#3_Copying_Random_htaccess_Rules\" >3. Copying Random .htaccess Rules<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-64\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#4_Assuming_XML-RPC_Is_the_Only_Security_Risk\" >4. Assuming XML-RPC Is the Only Security Risk<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-65\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#5_Ignoring_Logs\" >5. Ignoring Logs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-66\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#6_Forgetting_to_Test_Integrations\" >6. Forgetting to Test Integrations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-67\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#XML-RPC_Security_Checklist\" >XML-RPC Security Checklist<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-68\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-69\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#What_is_the_WordPress_XML-RPC_URL\" >What is the WordPress XML-RPC URL?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-70\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Is_XML-RPC_still_needed_in_WordPress\" >Is XML-RPC still needed in WordPress?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-71\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Does_disabling_XML-RPC_improve_WordPress_security\" >Does disabling XML-RPC improve WordPress security?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-72\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Can_I_disable_XML-RPC_without_a_plugin\" >Can I disable XML-RPC without a plugin?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-73\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Does_disabling_XML-RPC_disable_the_WordPress_REST_API\" >Does disabling XML-RPC disable the WordPress REST API?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-74\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Can_disabling_XML-RPC_break_WordPress\" >Can disabling XML-RPC break WordPress?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-75\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Should_I_disable_XML-RPC_on_every_WordPress_website\" >Should I disable XML-RPC on every WordPress website?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-76\" href=\"https:\/\/ehostpiya.in\/blog\/how-to-disable-xml-rpc-in-wordpress\/#Final_Thoughts\" >Final Thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Disable_XML-RPC_in_WordPress\"><\/span>How to Disable XML-RPC in WordPress<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">WordPress XML-RPC is a feature that allows external applications and services to communicate with a WordPress website remotely. It has been part of WordPress for many years and supports certain remote publishing, integration, and application-based workflows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, if your website does not require XML-RPC, disabling it can reduce an unnecessary attack surface. XML-RPC has historically been targeted by automated attacks, including large numbers of authentication requests and abuse of its remote procedure functionality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this guide, you&#8217;ll learn <strong>how to disable XML-RPC in WordPress<\/strong>, different methods for doing it, how to determine whether your website needs XML-RPC, and what to check if disabling it causes compatibility problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_XML-RPC_in_WordPress\"><\/span>What Is XML-RPC in WordPress?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">XML-RPC is a communication protocol that allows applications outside WordPress to interact with the website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">WordPress commonly exposes XML-RPC through:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>https:&#47;&#47;example.com\/xmlrpc.php<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can allow remote applications to perform certain actions on a WordPress website without directly using the normal WordPress dashboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, XML-RPC has historically been used for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Remote publishing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mobile applications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Third-party integrations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>External services<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pingbacks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remote content management<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Modern WordPress sites may use other APIs and integrations instead, so XML-RPC is not necessarily required for every website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Disable_XML-RPC_in_WordPress\"><\/span>Why Disable XML-RPC in WordPress?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Disabling XML-RPC can be useful when your website does not depend on it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Reduce_the_Attack_Surface\"><\/span>1. Reduce the Attack Surface<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every enabled feature provides another component that needs to be maintained and protected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If XML-RPC is not required, disabling it removes that particular interface from normal use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Reduce_Automated_Abuse\"><\/span>2. Reduce Automated Abuse<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">XML-RPC has been used in automated attacks, including authentication attempts and other abusive requests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Blocking unnecessary XML-RPC requests can reduce unwanted traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Reduce_Pingback_Abuse\"><\/span>3. Reduce Pingback Abuse<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">WordPress pingbacks can be abused to generate unwanted requests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your website does not use pingbacks or related XML-RPC functionality, disabling XML-RPC may be appropriate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Simplify_WordPress_Security\"><\/span>4. Simplify WordPress Security<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A smaller attack surface can make security management easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, disabling XML-RPC does not replace other WordPress security controls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_You_Disable_XML-RPC\"><\/span>Should You Disable XML-RPC?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no universal answer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should first determine whether your website or an integration depends on it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">XML-RPC may still be required by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Certain mobile applications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remote publishing tools<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Older WordPress integrations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some third-party services<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Legacy plugins<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you disable it without checking dependencies, some features may stop working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a simple website that is managed entirely through the WordPress dashboard and does not use XML-RPC-dependent services, disabling it may be reasonable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Check_Whether_XML-RPC_Is_Being_Used\"><\/span>Check Whether XML-RPC Is Being Used<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before disabling XML-RPC, review your website&#8217;s plugins and integrations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mobile publishing tools<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>External WordPress management services<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Remote publishing systems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Older integrations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plugins that specifically mention XML-RPC<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also review web server access logs for requests to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>\/xmlrpc.php<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A large number of requests does not necessarily mean that a legitimate service is using XML-RPC. It may simply indicate automated traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Method_1_Disable_XML-RPC_Using_a_WordPress_Security_Plugin\"><\/span>Method 1: Disable XML-RPC Using a WordPress Security Plugin<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For many administrators, using a reputable security plugin is the simplest method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exact option name varies by plugin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may find settings such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Disable XML-RPC<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Block XML-RPC<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Disable XML-RPC authentication<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>XML-RPC protection<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Create_a_Backup\"><\/span>Step 1: Create a Backup<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before modifying security or access settings, create a current backup of your WordPress files and database.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Install_a_Trusted_Security_Plugin\"><\/span>Step 2: Install a Trusted Security Plugin<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use a reputable security plugin from a trusted source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid downloading modified or unofficial copies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Find_XML-RPC_Settings\"><\/span>Step 3: Find XML-RPC Settings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Open the plugin&#8217;s security settings and look for its XML-RPC controls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Disable_XML-RPC\"><\/span>Step 4: Disable XML-RPC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Enable the option to disable or block XML-RPC if you have confirmed that your website does not need it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Save_the_Settings\"><\/span>Step 5: Save the Settings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Apply the configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_6_Test_the_Website\"><\/span>Step 6: Test the Website<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>WordPress login<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dashboard<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Publishing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contact forms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Membership functionality<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>WooCommerce if installed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>External integrations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure your normal website functionality continues to work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Method_2_Disable_XML-RPC_With_a_WordPress_Filter\"><\/span>Method 2: Disable XML-RPC With a WordPress Filter<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you prefer a lightweight approach, WordPress provides a filter that can disable XML-RPC functionality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Add the following code to an appropriate site-specific code location:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>add_filter( 'xmlrpc_enabled', '__return_false' );<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This tells WordPress to disable XML-RPC functionality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Important_Consideration\"><\/span>Important Consideration<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not edit WordPress core files to add this code.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Core files can be overwritten during WordPress updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead, place custom functionality in an appropriate location, such as a site-specific plugin or another properly managed customization mechanism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Method_3_Block_xmlrpcphp_at_the_Web_Server_Level\"><\/span>Method 3: Block <code>xmlrpc.php<\/code> at the Web Server Level<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Another approach is to block access to the XML-RPC endpoint before the request reaches WordPress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exact configuration depends on your web server.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Apache environments, a rule can be configured to deny access to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>\/xmlrpc.php<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exact syntax and location depend on your hosting configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before modifying <code>.htaccess<\/code> or server configuration, create a backup and make sure you understand the impact of the rule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An incorrect server rule can cause unexpected access problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Method_4_Block_XML-RPC_Using_a_Web_Application_Firewall\"><\/span>Method 4: Block XML-RPC Using a Web Application Firewall<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Web Application Firewall can also be used to restrict requests to the XML-RPC endpoint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This approach can be useful if you want to control traffic before it reaches your WordPress installation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on the WAF, you may be able to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Block all XML-RPC requests<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rate-limit XML-RPC traffic<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allow trusted sources<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Log requests<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply custom rules<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A WAF can be especially useful when your website receives large amounts of unwanted automated traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Method_5_Disable_XML-RPC_Through_Hosting_Security_Tools\"><\/span>Method 5: Disable XML-RPC Through Hosting Security Tools<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some managed WordPress hosting platforms and security systems provide a setting to disable XML-RPC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your hosting provider offers this option, it may be preferable to use the hosting-level control rather than manually editing server configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check your hosting control panel or ask your hosting provider whether XML-RPC management is supported.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Disabling_XML-RPC_vs_Blocking_XML-RPC\"><\/span>Disabling XML-RPC vs Blocking XML-RPC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These approaches are related but not always identical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Disable_XML-RPC\"><\/span>Disable XML-RPC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">WordPress prevents XML-RPC functionality from operating normally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Block_the_Endpoint\"><\/span>Block the Endpoint<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The server or firewall prevents requests from reaching <code>xmlrpc.php<\/code>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Protect_XML-RPC\"><\/span>Protect XML-RPC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The endpoint remains available but is restricted using controls such as rate limiting or access rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best approach depends on whether your website actually requires XML-RPC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Happens_After_XML-RPC_Is_Disabled\"><\/span>What Happens After XML-RPC Is Disabled?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your website does not depend on XML-RPC, you may notice no visible difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Normal visitors should still be able to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Browse pages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Submit forms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Read posts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Purchase products<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Log in through standard WordPress authentication<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, services that depend on XML-RPC may stop working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is why testing is important after making the change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Check_Whether_XML-RPC_Is_Disabled\"><\/span>How to Check Whether XML-RPC Is Disabled<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After applying your chosen method, you should verify the result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One simple test is to check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>https:&#47;&#47;example.com\/xmlrpc.php<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exact response depends on how XML-RPC has been disabled or blocked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also review your server or firewall logs to determine whether requests are being blocked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A security scanner or WordPress security plugin may also report the XML-RPC status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"XML-RPC_and_Brute-Force_Attacks\"><\/span>XML-RPC and Brute-Force Attacks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One reason XML-RPC receives security attention is its ability to support certain remote authentication operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Attackers may attempt to abuse this functionality with automated requests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Traditional login protection may not always address XML-RPC traffic in the same way as requests to the normal WordPress login endpoint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If XML-RPC is required, consider protecting it with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rate limiting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>WAF rules<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitoring<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Strong passwords<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Two-factor authentication where compatible<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Restricting unnecessary access<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If XML-RPC is not needed, disabling it removes the endpoint from normal use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"XML-RPC_and_Pingbacks\"><\/span>XML-RPC and Pingbacks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pingbacks are one of the features associated with XML-RPC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A pingback allows websites to notify each other when one site links to another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While this can be useful in some publishing workflows, pingback functionality has also been abused for unwanted traffic generation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your website does not use pingbacks, disabling XML-RPC or separately restricting pingback functionality may be appropriate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"XML-RPC_vs_REST_API\"><\/span>XML-RPC vs REST API<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is important not to confuse XML-RPC with the WordPress REST API.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">WordPress provides both interfaces for different purposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The REST API is commonly used by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Modern applications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>WordPress editor functionality<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Headless WordPress implementations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>JavaScript applications<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Third-party integrations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Disabling XML-RPC does not automatically disable the REST API.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Likewise, disabling the REST API is not required simply because you disabled XML-RPC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not block APIs without understanding which features depend on them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Disable_XML-RPC_Without_Breaking_Your_Website\"><\/span>How to Disable XML-RPC Without Breaking Your Website<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Follow this process:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Identify_Dependencies\"><\/span>Step 1: Identify Dependencies<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Find out whether your plugins, applications, or integrations use XML-RPC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Back_Up_the_Website\"><\/span>Step 2: Back Up the Website<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Create a reliable backup of the files and database.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Choose_the_Least_Complicated_Method\"><\/span>Step 3: Choose the Least Complicated Method<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For many websites, a trusted security plugin or appropriate site-specific configuration is easier to maintain than manually modifying server files.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Disable_XML-RPC-2\"><\/span>Step 4: Disable XML-RPC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Apply your chosen configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Test_Core_Functionality\"><\/span>Step 5: Test Core Functionality<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check the dashboard, publishing, forms, ecommerce, membership, and integrations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_6_Monitor_Logs\"><\/span>Step 6: Monitor Logs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look for unexpected errors or blocked requests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_7_Keep_the_Configuration_Documented\"><\/span>Step 7: Keep the Configuration Documented<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Record what you changed and why.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This makes future troubleshooting easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Problems_After_Disabling_XML-RPC\"><\/span>Common Problems After Disabling XML-RPC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Problem_1_A_Mobile_App_Stops_Working\"><\/span>Problem 1: A Mobile App Stops Working<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the app depends on XML-RPC, disabling it may prevent remote access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Solution\"><\/span>Solution<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Determine whether the application supports another authentication or API method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If XML-RPC is essential, consider protecting it rather than completely blocking it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Problem_2_A_Third-Party_Integration_Stops_Publishing\"><\/span>Problem 2: A Third-Party Integration Stops Publishing<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some older publishing systems may depend on XML-RPC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Solution-2\"><\/span>Solution<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check the integration documentation and determine whether it supports the WordPress REST API or another modern integration method.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Problem_3_A_Plugin_Reports_an_XML-RPC_Error\"><\/span>Problem 3: A Plugin Reports an XML-RPC Error<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A plugin may display an error because it expects XML-RPC to be available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Solution-3\"><\/span>Solution<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check whether the plugin actually requires XML-RPC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the feature is not essential, you may be able to leave XML-RPC disabled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Problem_4_htaccess_Changes_Break_the_Website\"><\/span>Problem 4: <code>.htaccess<\/code> Changes Break the Website<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Incorrect rewrite or access rules can cause server errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Solution-4\"><\/span>Solution<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Restore the previous configuration from your backup and review the rule with your hosting provider or server administrator.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Re-Enable_XML-RPC\"><\/span>How to Re-Enable XML-RPC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you discover that an important service requires XML-RPC, you can reverse the change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The exact process depends on how it was disabled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, if you added:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>add_filter( 'xmlrpc_enabled', '__return_false' );<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">remove that customization from the appropriate site-specific code location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you used a plugin, disable the XML-RPC blocking option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you used a firewall or server rule, remove or adjust the corresponding rule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After re-enabling XML-RPC, test the integration that requires it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_XML-RPC_Be_Completely_Disabled_or_Protected\"><\/span>Should XML-RPC Be Completely Disabled or Protected?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider the following factors:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Situation<\/th><th>Possible Approach<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Simple website with no XML-RPC dependencies<\/td><td>Disable XML-RPC<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Website using an XML-RPC-dependent service<\/td><td>Keep it enabled and protect it<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>High XML-RPC abuse<\/td><td>Use rate limiting\/WAF or disable if unnecessary<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Legacy integration<\/td><td>Verify compatibility before disabling<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Managed hosting with XML-RPC controls<\/td><td>Consider using the hosting-level option<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no single configuration that fits every WordPress installation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Additional_WordPress_Security_Measures\"><\/span>Additional WordPress Security Measures<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Disabling XML-RPC should be part of a broader security strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keep_WordPress_Updated\"><\/span>Keep WordPress Updated<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Install WordPress security updates and maintain current plugin and theme versions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Remove_Unused_Plugins\"><\/span>Remove Unused Plugins<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Delete plugins that are no longer required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_Strong_Passwords\"><\/span>Use Strong Passwords<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every administrator should have a unique password.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Enable_Two-Factor_Authentication\"><\/span>Enable Two-Factor Authentication<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">2FA adds an additional layer to administrator authentication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Protect_the_Login_Page\"><\/span>Protect the Login Page<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use rate limiting and other appropriate controls against automated login attempts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_a_Web_Application_Firewall\"><\/span>Use a Web Application Firewall<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A WAF can help filter malicious web traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Monitor_Administrator_Accounts\"><\/span>Monitor Administrator Accounts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regularly review users and remove unauthorized accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Maintain_Backups\"><\/span>Maintain Backups<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep independent backups and periodically test restoration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Scan_for_Malware\"><\/span>Scan for Malware<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular malware scanning can help identify unexpected changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Mistakes_When_Disabling_XML-RPC\"><\/span>Common Mistakes When Disabling XML-RPC<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Disabling_It_Without_Checking_Dependencies\"><\/span>1. Disabling It Without Checking Dependencies<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can break legitimate services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Editing_WordPress_Core_Files\"><\/span>2. Editing WordPress Core Files<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Core modifications can be overwritten during updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use appropriate customization mechanisms instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Copying_Random_htaccess_Rules\"><\/span>3. Copying Random <code>.htaccess<\/code> Rules<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Server configurations vary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A rule that works on one server may cause problems on another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Assuming_XML-RPC_Is_the_Only_Security_Risk\"><\/span>4. Assuming XML-RPC Is the Only Security Risk<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">WordPress security involves many components.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Attackers can target plugins, themes, accounts, hosting, APIs, and other services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Ignoring_Logs\"><\/span>5. Ignoring Logs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Logs can help determine whether XML-RPC is actually being targeted or used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Forgetting_to_Test_Integrations\"><\/span>6. Forgetting to Test Integrations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A website may appear normal while a background integration has stopped functioning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"XML-RPC_Security_Checklist\"><\/span>XML-RPC Security Checklist<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before and after disabling XML-RPC, check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Create a complete backup<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Determine whether XML-RPC is required<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Review plugins and integrations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check server logs for XML-RPC requests<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose an appropriate disabling method<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid modifying WordPress core<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Test the website<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Test mobile or external publishing tools<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Test third-party integrations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check firewall and CDN rules<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor server logs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep WordPress updated<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enable strong authentication<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use 2FA where appropriate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maintain regular backups<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_WordPress_XML-RPC_URL\"><\/span>What is the WordPress XML-RPC URL?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The standard XML-RPC endpoint is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>https:&#47;&#47;example.com\/xmlrpc.php<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_XML-RPC_still_needed_in_WordPress\"><\/span>Is XML-RPC still needed in WordPress?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some websites and integrations may still require it, while others can operate without it. Check your website&#8217;s dependencies before disabling the feature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_disabling_XML-RPC_improve_WordPress_security\"><\/span>Does disabling XML-RPC improve WordPress security?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It can reduce the attack surface and prevent abuse of the XML-RPC endpoint when that functionality is unnecessary. However, it does not secure the rest of the website by itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_disable_XML-RPC_without_a_plugin\"><\/span>Can I disable XML-RPC without a plugin?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. You can use WordPress configuration\/code or server-level controls, depending on your hosting environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_disabling_XML-RPC_disable_the_WordPress_REST_API\"><\/span>Does disabling XML-RPC disable the WordPress REST API?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. XML-RPC and the REST API are separate interfaces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_disabling_XML-RPC_break_WordPress\"><\/span>Can disabling XML-RPC break WordPress?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It generally should not affect ordinary website browsing or dashboard administration, but services that depend on XML-RPC may stop working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_I_disable_XML-RPC_on_every_WordPress_website\"><\/span>Should I disable XML-RPC on every WordPress website?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not necessarily. First determine whether your website or any integration depends on it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_Thoughts\"><\/span>Final Thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Disabling XML-RPC can be a useful security hardening step when your WordPress website does not need remote XML-RPC functionality. It can reduce exposure to unwanted XML-RPC traffic and eliminate one interface that attackers may attempt to abuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, <strong>disabling XML-RPC is not a complete WordPress security solution<\/strong>. Combine it with strong passwords, two-factor authentication, login protection, regular updates, secure hosting, malware scanning, WAF protection, monitoring, and reliable backups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before blocking XML-RPC, always check whether your website depends on it. If an important service requires XML-RPC, protecting the endpoint with appropriate rate limiting and firewall controls may be more suitable than completely disabling it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best WordPress security configuration is one that removes unnecessary functionality while preserving the features your website genuinely needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"How to Disable XML-RPC in WordPress WordPress XML-RPC is a feature that allows external applications and services to&hellip;","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"csco_display_header_overlay":false,"csco_singular_sidebar":"","csco_page_header_type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[134],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2612","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","category-wordpress-web-hosting","cs-entry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Disable XML-RPC in WordPress? 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