Skip to main content

Password-protecting a site with Basic Authentication

Put a username and password in front of your whole site.

Written by Daniel

Basic Authentication puts a username and password prompt in front of your entire site, before WordPress even loads. It is useful for a site that is not ready for the public, such as one still in development or waiting on a launch.


Turn on Basic Authentication

  1. Open your site, then under Hosting select Security.

  2. Switch on Enable Basic Auth.

  3. Enter a Username and Password for the prompt.

  4. Click Save.


The Security page with Basic Authentication


Anyone visiting the site now has to enter that username and password before they can see it. Share the details only with the people who need access.


Turning it off

When the site is ready for the public, return to this page, switch off Enable Basic Auth, and click Save.

Did this answer your question?