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Manage XML-RPC

By brainvireinfo

Security & Privacy / Security Scanning & Malware Protection

Manage XML-RPC Review - In-Depth Analysis

Manage XML-RPC to enhance security by enabling or disabling access based on IP addresses. Control pingbacks and HTTP headers effectively.

Performance Overview

WPS Score

6.47/10

User Rating

3/5 (based on 4+ reviews)

Active Installations

6,000+

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

You can now disable XML-RPC to avoid brute force attacks for given IPs or can even enable access for some IPs. XML-RPC on WordPress is actually an API that gives developers who build mobile apps, desktop apps, and other services the ability to talk to a WordPress site.

The XML-RPC API that WordPress provides gives developers a way to write applications that can do many of the things that you can do when logged into WordPress via the web interface.

Block XML-RPC by following ways. Disable pingback.ping, pingback.extensions.getPingbacks, and unset X-Pingback from HTTP headers to block bots from accessing specified methods. You can disable or block XML-RPC for all users.

Comparing to Alternatives

Manage XML-RPC is a straightforward plugin designed to control XML-RPC access on WordPress sites. Compared to similar plugins, it offers focused functionality with some flexibility in settings.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Effectively blocks unwanted XML-RPC access, reducing attack surface.
Allows selective blocking such as pingbacks or IP-based access control.
Simple and easy to use with minimal configuration required.
Returns proper HTTP 403 responses to unauthorized requests.

Weaknesses

Does not provide enabling functionality for XML-RPC if disabled elsewhere.
May cause backend access issues if misconfigured.
Lacks advanced logging or reporting features.
No premium version to extend capabilities.

User Sentiment Analysis

User feedback highlights the plugin's effectiveness in blocking XML-RPC attacks but also points out some critical issues.

Positive highlights

"Simply works... elegantly turn the xmlrpc.php URL into a 403" - mtreklivecom
"Easy in use! Works great!! Block entirely the access, block only pingback or/and allow/deny by IP" - .

Common complaints

Does not enable XML-RPC functionality if needed.
Causes backend access problems after activation.
Whitelisting IPs may not work as expected.

Weaknesses

Lack of support for enabling XML-RPC.
Potential to lock users out of backend.
Limited troubleshooting guidance.

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Site owners who want a simple and effective way to block XML-RPC attacks and do not require XML-RPC functionality enabled.

Not ideal for

Users who need to use XML-RPC features for remote posting or Jetpack integration, or those who want advanced control and support.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version provides essential XML-RPC blocking features including full blocking, selective pingback blocking, and IP-based access control.

Final Verdict

Manage XML-RPC is a practical plugin for users seeking to secure their WordPress sites against XML-RPC attacks with minimal setup.

However, it lacks enabling features and can cause backend access issues, so users should proceed with caution and ensure it fits their specific needs.