Static 404 page to minimze resource usage during bruteforce attacks
Introduction: In WordPress, dynamic 404 error pages are generated for non-existent URLs, which can consume server resources and impact website performance during high traffic or brute force attacks. To mitigate this issue, Middlehost developed a lightweight plugin, "Static 404," which returns a static 404 response for such URLs, improving performance and security.
Overview of the Static 404 Plugin:
The Static 404 plugin is designed to handle 404 errors more efficiently by bypassing WordPress's dynamic template system and delivering a static response instead. This ensures that server resources are conserved and the performance of your website remains unaffected even during heavy attacks targeting non-existent URLs.
Features:
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Serves a static 404 response for non-existent URLs.
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Reduces server load caused by dynamic 404 page generation.
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Easy to install and use without additional configuration.
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Lightweight and does not interfere with other functionalities.
Installation and Usage Guide:
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Download the Plugin: Copy the plugin code provided below or download the plugin file from Middlehost’s official GitHub repository. https://github.com/middlehost/wp-static-404/
Or use this direct download link https://github.com/middlehost/wp-static-404/archive/refs/heads/main.zip -
Upload the Plugin:
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Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard.
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Navigate to
Plugins
>Add New
>Upload Plugin
. -
Upload the plugin file (
wp-static-404.zip
) and clickInstall Now
.
-
-
Activate the Plugin: After installation, click
Activate
to enable the Static 404 plugin on your website. -
Verify Functionality:
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Test by visiting a non-existent URL on your site (e.g.,
yourdomain.com/nonexistent-page
). -
You should see a simple "Page not found" message without the usual WordPress 404 template.
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How It Works: The plugin hooks into WordPress’s template_redirect
action and checks if the current page is a 404. If it is, it uses wp_die()
to deliver a static response with a 404 HTTP status code and a minimal message. This bypasses the dynamic rendering process, conserving server resources.
Benefits:
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Performance Optimization: Prevents resource-intensive dynamic page generation for frequent 404 requests.
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Enhanced Security: Reduces the impact of brute force or bot attacks targeting non-existent URLs.
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Ease of Use: Simple implementation without configuration hassles.
Support and Updates: For support or to suggest improvements, please contact Middlehost Support.
Conclusion: The Static 404 plugin is an essential tool for WordPress site owners looking to optimize their site’s performance and protect against attacks targeting non-existent URLs. By serving static 404 responses, this plugin ensures your site remains fast and reliable under all conditions.