How to Disable XML-RPC in WordPress Website?

Key Takeaways

  • Nexter Extension (Free) allows users to disable XML-RPC to enhance site security.
  • Disabling XML-RPC helps protect WordPress websites from brute force attacks and vulnerabilities.
  • Many hosting providers, like Kinsta, disable XML-RPC by default for security reasons.
Table of Contents

XML-RPC is a remote procedure call protocol that allows different applications to communicate with each other. It is a common feature in WordPress that allows to communicate with other applications such as mobile devices to post content. But if you are not using such remote connection you should disable XML-RPC.

With the Nexter Extension (Free) plugin you can easily disable XML-RPC to make your site more secure.

 

Why Disable XML-RPC?

While XML-RPC can be useful for certain tasks, it can also pose security risks for your website. Hackers can use XML-RPC to launch brute force attacks or exploit vulnerabilities in your site’s code. To protect your WordPress website, it’s important to disable XML-RPC if you’re not using it. Many hostings like Kinsta by default keep XML-RPC disabled for security reasons.

How to Disable XML-RPC with The Nexter Extension?

To do this, go to Nexter > Extensions > Security.

Then go to the Advanced Security section, enable the toggle, and click on the gear icon (⚙).

advanced security settings new 1

This will open the Advanced Security popup, go to Disable XML-RPC and enable the toggle.

Then click on the Save button.

disable xml rpc

About the Author

Photo of Aditya Sharma CMO of NexterWP
CMO at POSIMYTH Innovations · NexterWP · 7 years experience

He has spent years in the WordPress ecosystem building, breaking, and optimizing sites until they actually perform. He works at the intersection of speed, growth, and usability, helping creators ship websites that load fast and convert. An active WordPress community contributor sharing through tools, tutorials, and direct collaboration. Tested practice, not theory.

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Related Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any limitations when disabling XML-RPC?

Disabling XML-RPC may limit certain functionalities, such as posting content from mobile applications or using specific plugins that require remote access. If you rely on these features, consider the implications before disabling XML-RPC. For most users not using remote connections, the security benefits outweigh these limitations.

What is the best practice for managing XML-RPC in WordPress?

The best practice is to disable XML-RPC if you do not use it for remote connections. This reduces the attack surface of your website. Using the Nexter Extension simplifies this process, allowing you to manage security settings effectively without needing to modify code or configurations manually.

How can I troubleshoot issues after disabling XML-RPC?

If you encounter issues after disabling XML-RPC, check if any plugins or mobile applications that you use require this feature. You may need to re-enable XML-RPC temporarily to restore functionality. Monitoring your site's security logs can also help identify any unauthorized access attempts that may have prompted your decision to disable it.

Last reviewed: April 15, 2026

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