how to disable wp json api

The WP JSON API, also known as the WordPress REST API, is a feature that allows developers to interact with a site remotely by sending and receiving JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) objects. While beneficial for many, particularly in application development and frontend site management, there may be instances where disabling it is advantageous for security reasons or to enhance site performance.

Understanding the Need to Disable WP JSON API

Disabling the WP JSON API might be necessary to mitigate potential security risks such as unauthorized data access or DDoS attacks (Distributed Denial of Service). Simplifying the WordPress setup by turning off unused features can also contribute to faster performance and reduced server load.

Methods to Disable WP JSON API

1. Using Plugins

For users uncomfortable with coding, plugins provide an easy interface to manage the REST API.

• Disable REST API Plugin: This is a simple plugin that allows you to disable the API for users who are not logged into your website. It helps in preventing unauthorized API requests from public users.

• WP Hardening: This security plugin offers several features, not just to disable the REST API but also to tweak other security settings for enhancing your website protection.

To use these plugins, simply install and activate them from the WordPress dashboard, then navigate to their settings page and choose the options that suit your needs.

2. Via functions.php

For a more tailored approach, you can disable the API by adding code to your theme’s functions.php file:

add_filter('json_enabled', '__return_false');
add_filter('json_jsonp_enabled', '__return_false');

This method completely turns off the REST API but use it with caution as updates to the theme could overwrite this change unless you’re using a child theme.

3. Using .htaccess

For those who prefer server-level configurations, modifying the .htaccess file is efficient, especially in terms of controlling access:

# Disable REST API

RewriteEngine On
RewriteCond %{REQUEST_URI} ^/wp-json/ [NC]
RewriteRule ^(.*)$ - [R=403,L]

This method will block public access to the WP JSON API and return a “403 Forbidden” status, effectively preventing the API’s use by unauthorized users.

4. Limiting REST API Access

Instead of completely disabling the REST API, you might consider limiting access only to authenticated users:

add_filter('rest_authentication_errors', function ($access) {
    if (!is_user_logged_in()) {
        return new WP_Error('rest_cannot_access', 'Only authenticated users can access the REST API.', array('status' => rest_authorization_required_code()));
    }
    return $access;
});

Place this snippet in your functions.php. It ensures that only logged-in users can access the API, maintaining functionality for authorized users while protecting against public access.

Monitoring and Maintenance

After disabling or restricting the WP JSON API, it’s crucial to monitor your website for any changes in behavior or functionality, particularly if you manage a multisite environment or rely on applications that use the API. Consider continuous security audits and performance monitoring to ensure that these changes positively impact your site’s security and effectiveness.

SEO Considerations

While disabling the WP JSON API might slightly improve site speed by reducing the load, make sure that this does not adversely affect your site’s other functions, especially if you depend on third-party services or plugins that utilize the API. Slower API response times or disabling it could impact user experience and backend functionality which indirectly influences SEO.

Best Practices

Always back up your website before making significant changes such as disabling the WP JSON API. Test these changes in a staging environment first to avoid any disruptions to your live website. Consult with a development team if you run into complex issues or if you need to customize access beyond the standard options.

In summary, disabling the WP JSON API can enhance your WordPress site’s security and performance if not required. Understanding the methods—ranging from plugins, code snippets, to server configurations—and implementing them appropriately ensures that you achieve the desired functionality without compromising on efficiency or security.