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Disable XML-RPC Pingback

By Samuel Aguilera

Security & Privacy / Security Scanning & Malware Protection

Disable XML-RPC Pingback Review - In-Depth Analysis

This plugin stops abuse of XML-RPC by removing methods used by attackers while keeping other functionalities intact. It is simple, effective, and compliant with WordPress coding standards.

Performance Overview

WPS Score

6.8/10

User Rating

3.9/5 (based on 14+ reviews)

Active Installations

60,000+

Update Frequency

Below Average It is calculated using the weighted average of same category plugins.

Security Score

1 / 10 (Very Low Risk) It is calculated using the weighted average of all versions.

What It Does

This plugin stops abuse of your site's XML-RPC by simply removing some methods used by attackers. While you can use the rest of XML-RPC methods, this is more friendly than disabling it totally, as it is needed by some plugins and apps, like mobile apps or some Jetpack modules.

The plugin is simple and effective, with no marketing buzz. It has been maintained and updated when needed since 2014. It is 100% compliant with WordPress coding standards, making it fail-safe. With over 60,000 active installations, it has proven to be reliable.

If you're happy with the plugin, please don't forget to give it a good rating, as it will motivate the developer to keep sharing and improving this plugin and others.

Key features include the removal of specific methods from the XML-RPC interface, such as pingback.ping, pingback.extensions.getPingbacks, and the X-Pingback from HTTP headers. This aims to stop some bots from trying to hit your xmlrpc.php file.

Requirements include WordPress version 3.8.1 or higher.

Comparing to Alternatives

Disable XML-RPC Pingback is a focused plugin designed to block XML-RPC pingback attacks, standing out among similar tools for its simplicity and effectiveness.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Simple and straightforward functionality targeting XML-RPC pingbacks.
Lightweight with minimal configuration required.
Effectively blocks common XML-RPC attack vectors.
Free to use without hidden costs.

Weaknesses

Lacks advanced customization options found in some alternatives.
No recent frequent updates, which may concern some users.
Limited scope compared to plugins managing full XML-RPC functionality.
No premium support or additional features.

User Sentiment Analysis

User feedback highlights the plugin's effectiveness and ease of use, though some concerns about compatibility and update frequency exist.

Positive highlights

'Does what it says and this is what needed for a XMLRPC attacks.' - gmyoganand
'Thank you for this free and great plugin.' - wplike75
'Gran trabajo Samuel, en combinación con algunas reglas de htaccess hace un trabajo fantástico.' - Fernando Tellado
'The plugin author is still actively engaged with this excellently useful plugin.' - Gordon

Common complaints

Plugin broke a user's site requiring a backup restore.
Some users note the plugin hasn't been updated in over a year.
Others suggest alternative plugins with more features or better maintenance.

Weaknesses

Potential compatibility issues with certain setups.
Infrequent updates may affect confidence in long-term support.
Limited feature set compared to alternatives.

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Users seeking a simple, no-frills solution to disable XML-RPC pingback functionality to protect their WordPress site from related attacks.

Not ideal for

Those needing comprehensive XML-RPC management or frequent updates and support might find this plugin insufficient.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version fully disables XML-RPC pingback functionality, providing essential protection without any cost.

Final Verdict

Disable XML-RPC Pingback is an effective and lightweight plugin that fulfills its purpose of blocking XML-RPC pingback attacks efficiently and without complexity.

While it lacks advanced features and frequent updates, it remains a solid choice for users wanting straightforward protection without cost or hassle.