What Is WordFence?

WordFence is a WordPress security plugin that even has some optimization tools built in. WordFence has made great strides and has become one of the largest names in WordPress security by discovering vulnerabilities in several plugins and by actively keep users updated by their email list.

WordFence in recent times has made a push to improve multisite compatibility in order to keep sites better protected and to avoid it from getting in the way of those on the network. The latest release version 6.0 has added full IPV 6 compatibility and it is continuing to add more tools and improvement to its scanning engine.

However, WordFence has also created its infamous "Falcon Engine" which is supposed to improve the load time of your website up to 50 times of what it used to be. However, this number is slightly misleading as the actual plugin is using a cached page and is making it to where your website could handle roughly 50x the amount of traffic (if you are on a decent hosting plan that is). This tool is not strong enough to replace something such as W3 Total Cache, but it still has great use for those who get scared by the thought of using such a tool.

Personally I have never found the caching module to be of use and I prefer to use a tool such as W3 Total Cache or WP Super Cache. But this tool is so simple that anyone can add it to their website and see their load time increase greatly. Especially if they use it in conjunction with a tool such as Auto-Optimize.

In conclusion, WordFence is an all in one security and performance plugin that is a great tool for any website to have. If you are a more experienced webmaster then you might not find much use for the tool but its a great starting point for those entering the WordPress scene.