how to remove WordPress version number from source code

Removing the WordPress version number from your website’s source code is a strategic move for enhancing security and minimizing the chances of targeted attacks. Hackers often exploit known vulnerabilities associated with specific versions of WordPress, so hiding your version number can help shield your site from such threats. Below, we will discuss multiple methods to remove the WordPress version number effectively, catering to various levels of WordPress users.

Method 1: Using Functions.php

One of the simplest ways to remove the WordPress version number from your website’s source code is by modifying the functions.php file of your active theme. Add the following code snippet to your functions.php file:

function remove_WordPress_version_number() {
    remove_action('wp_head', 'wp_generator');
}
add_action('init', 'remove_WordPress_version_number');

This function utilizes the remove_action to disable the wp_generator function that WordPress uses to include the version number in the site’s head HTML section. It’s a direct and effective method to clean your WordPress source code of any version numbers.

Method 2: Using a Security Plugin

For those who prefer not to touch code, using a security plugin can be an efficient alternative. Plugins like iThemes Security, All In One WP Security & Firewall, and Sucuri Security offer options to hide the WordPress version. Install any of these plugins and navigate through the settings to find and enable the option to remove or hide the WordPress version number.

Utilizing a plugin not only helps with this specific task but also enhances your website’s overall security with additional features like firewall protection, malware scanning, and more.

Method 3: Via .htaccess

Advanced users can take a more hands-on approach by editing the .htaccess file. Although .htaccess primarily manages the server’s settings, you can insert directives that prevent the display of the WordPress version. Add the following to your .htaccess file:

    Header unset X-Powered-By
    Header unset X-Pingback

This method might not directly affect the WordPress version mentioned in the HTML, but it will remove headers that could potentially give away your CMS and version information when headers are inspected.

Method 4: Manually Remove Generator Meta Tag

For those who want a more root-level intervention, directly removing the generator meta tag from the HTML is possible. You’ll need to edit the header.php file of your WordPress theme. Look for a line resembling:

and delete it or comment it out. Be cautious with this method; it can be overridden with theme updates, so you might have to repeat the process after each update.

Method 5: Use of Security Configuration Files

The wp-config.php file can also be used to enhance your WordPress site’s security, including hiding your WordPress version. While there is no direct line of code to add in wp-config.php that will remove the version number, you can increase overall security by disabling editing from the dashboard:

define('DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT', true);

This line will prevent any changes to plugins and themes from within the WordPress admin area, which indirectly helps secure any version-specific vulnerabilities.

Additional Best Practices

While removing the version number can obscure your site from automated attacks, it should be part of a broader security strategy. Always keep your WordPress, themes, and plugins up to date, use strong passwords, and employ a reliable backup solution. Regularly scanning your website for vulnerabilities and implementing strong permission settings are also recommended.

Removing the WordPress version number from your site’s source code can help in keeping potential intruders at bay, offering an additional layer of security. By blending code tweaks and robust security plugins, WordPress admins can safeguard their sites from unnecessary exposure and risks associated with version-specific exploits.