June 17, 2025

Essential 8

« Back to Glossary Index

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, cybersecurity is essential for organizations of all sizes, including those using WordPress. With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, robust security strategies are vital. Enter the Essential 8, a cybersecurity framework developed by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC). It offers a set of prioritized mitigation strategies designed to reduce the risk of cyber incidents.

This blog explores each of the Essential 8 strategies, offering practical guidance for WordPress users to implement them and enhance their website’s security posture.

What Is the Essential 8?

Developed by the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) and introduced in 2017, the Essential 8 provides a cost-effective, broadly applicable baseline of cybersecurity controls.

Purpose

Its goal is to reduce the likelihood and impact of cybersecurity incidents through a foundational and scalable set of strategies.

Why Is the Essential 8 Important?

With threats such as malware, phishing, and unauthorized access on the rise, the Essential 8 helps organizations proactively defend their systems. In Australia, compliance with these controls is often mandatory, particularly for government and critical infrastructure organizations.

For WordPress users, adopting the Essential 8 not only strengthens security but also builds user trust.

The Eight Strategies Explained

Strategy Description Example
Application Control Prevent unapproved apps from executing Use plugins to control executable files
Patch Applications Fix vulnerabilities in software Regularly update WordPress core, themes, and plugins
Configure Macro Settings Prevent macro-based malware Disable risky WordPress settings
Patch Operating Systems Secure the underlying OS Use a managed hosting provider
Restrict Admin Privileges Limit administrative access Use WordPress roles and permissions
Multi-Factor Authentication Add another layer of login security Use an MFA plugin for admin access
User Application Hardening Minimize attack vectors Remove unnecessary plugins and features
Regular Backups Ensure reliable data recovery Automate backups using plugins like UpdraftPlus

Detailed Implementation Guide

1. Application Control

  • Definition: Prevent unauthorized application execution.
  • Example: Use Wordfence to restrict file execution.
  • Steps:
    1. Install a plugin with application control.
    2. Whitelist approved files.
    3. Regularly audit for unauthorized changes.
  • Pitfalls: Not updating approved file lists.

2. Patch Applications

  • Definition: Keep all software up to date.
  • Example: Regularly update WordPress, themes, and plugins.
  • Steps:
    1. Enable auto-updates.
    2. Monitor update notifications.
    3. Test updates in staging.
  • Pitfalls: Ignoring outdated plugins.

3. Configure Macro Settings

  • Definition: Block macro-based malware.
  • Example: Disable risky content upload settings.
  • Steps:
    1. Review and disable unnecessary executable permissions.
    2. Enforce with security plugins.
  • Pitfalls: Leaving upload or script features open.

4. Patch Operating Systems

  • Definition: Keep the OS current.
  • Example: Use a hosting provider that manages server updates.
  • Steps:
    1. Choose a managed host.
    2. Verify patching practices.
  • Pitfalls: Assuming updates are automatic.

5. Restrict Admin Privileges

  • Definition: Grant admin access only as needed.
  • Example: Use User Role Editor to assign roles.
  • Steps:
    1. Review roles regularly.
    2. Remove excess admin accounts.
  • Pitfalls: Over-provisioning access.

6. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

  • Definition: Require a second form of verification.
  • Example: Use plugins like WP 2FA.
  • Steps:
    1. Install an MFA plugin.
    2. Enforce MFA for all admins.
  • Pitfalls: Only applying MFA to some accounts.

7. User Application Hardening

  • Definition: Reduce the site’s exposure.
  • Example: Deactivate unused plugins.
  • Steps:
    1. Audit features and plugins.
    2. Remove unnecessary ones.
  • Pitfalls: Leaving unused elements active.

8. Regular Backups

  • Definition: Ensure your data can be recovered.
  • Example: Use UpdraftPlus.
  • Steps:
    1. Automate backups.
    2. Test restores regularly.
  • Pitfalls: Not verifying backup integrity.

Summary Table

Strategy Objective Real-World Example
Application Control Block unauthorized applications File control via security plugins
Patch Applications Eliminate software vulnerabilities Routine plugin and theme updates
Configure Macro Settings Prevent macro-based attacks Disable risky upload or script features
Patch Operating Systems Secure underlying infrastructure Managed server updates
Restrict Admin Privileges Minimize access to critical areas Limit admin roles
Multi-Factor Authentication Secure login processes MFA plugin implementation
User Application Hardening Reduce attack vectors Audit and remove unnecessary features
Regular Backups Enable recovery from incidents UpdraftPlus automated backup

How to Implement the Essential 8

Step 1: Initial Assessment

  • Conduct a security audit
  • Identify weaknesses

Step 2: Planning

  • Prioritize controls
  • Develop a roadmap

Step 3: Execution

  • Apply each control with relevant tools
  • Monitor effectiveness

Step 4: Review

  • Schedule regular audits
  • Update controls to match evolving threats

Maturity Model

Level Description
0 Controls not in place
1 Partial implementation
2 Mostly implemented, moderate protection
3 Fully implemented, strong protection

Measuring Progress

  • Review each control regularly
  • Use tools to validate maturity
  • Set improvement targets

FAQs

  1. Who should implement the Essential 8? Any business, especially those in Australia or working with Australian partners.
  2. Is it only required in Australia? No, the framework is globally applicable.
  3. How does it compare to NIST or ISO 27001? It’s simpler and more cost-effective, ideal for smaller organizations.
  4. How long does implementation take? Several weeks to months, depending on size and resources.
  5. Can it be customized? Yes, while maintaining core security principles.

Conclusion

Implementing the Essential 8 is a practical, effective way to strengthen your businesses defenses. Begin with an assessment, follow the implementation steps, and strive to reach higher maturity levels over time. Don’t have the skill sets? Reach out to us at Enabla Technology.

« Back to Glossary Index