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Free Plugin by Phil Erb v1.0.1

Disable XML-RPC

Disables the XML-RPC API in WordPress 3.5+, which is enabled by default.

Disable XML-RPC

The facts

Rating
4.2★ from 33
Active installs
200k+
Price
Free
Last updated
27 May 2026
Added
Sep 2012
Requires WP
3.5
Tested up to
WP 7.0.4
Downloads
658,640

Our analysis

AI-assisted

Disable XML-RPC is a WordPress plugin that allows you to disable the XML-RPC API on your site. It uses the built-in WordPress filter 'xmlrpc_enabled' to achieve this functionality. This is particularly useful for site owners who want to enhance their site's security by preventing XML-RPC access, which is enabled by default in WordPress versions 3.5 and above.

The plugin is suitable for WordPress sites running version 3.5 or higher. It provides a straightforward solution for those who prefer to disable XML-RPC for various reasons, such as reducing potential attack vectors.

Best for: WordPress site owners looking to enhance security by disabling XML-RPC.

What it does well

  • Disables XML-RPC API easily
  • Uses built-in WordPress filter
  • Suitable for WordPress 3.5 and above
  • Free to use from WordPress.org
  • Active installation count of 200,000

Where it falls short

  • Limited feature information provided
  • No options for configuring XML-RPC functionality

Verdict

Disable XML-RPC offers a simple solution for those wanting to turn off XML-RPC functionality. It is a straightforward tool for improving site security.

From the developer

Phil Erb's own description of Disable XML-RPC, lightly tidied.

Pretty simply, this plugin uses the built-in WordPress filter “xmlrpc_enabled” to disable the XML-RPC API on a WordPress site running 3.5 or above.

Beginning in 3.5, XML-RPC is enabled by default. Additionally, the option to disable/enable XML-RPC was removed. For various reasons, site owners may wish to disable this functionality. This plugin provides an easy way to do so.

Read the full description on the official page →

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