Joomla is a Content Management System (CMS), just like WordPress or Drupal. By using Joomla CMS, you can build, manage, and publish content on your website without having to code everything from scratch.
Joomla is written in PHP and usually uses databases like MySQL/MariaDB. Besides being open-source, Joomla also has its own templates for website appearance and extensions to add extra features such as forums, e-commerce, galleries, and more.
Joomla is typically used for corporate websites, organizations, news portals, school websites, and e-commerce. Its structure is more complex compared to WordPress, but also more flexible for large-scale or complex websites.
Unlike WordPress, which is easy to learn, Joomla requires more time to understand its features. In addition, Joomla has fewer extensions compared to WordPress, but they are usually more stable and focus on specific needs.
In terms of security, Joomla is stricter by default compared to WordPress, which is often a favorite target for hackers. However, it still needs regular updates and additional security configurations to stay safe.
Joomla also supports SEO, but the configuration is slightly more technical compared to WordPress, which is very strong in SEO thanks to plugins like Yoast SEO, RankMath, and others.
Tips to Secure Your Joomla Website:
1. Always Update Joomla & Extensions
Old versions usually contain security vulnerabilities. Always keep the Joomla core, templates, and other extensions up to date.
2. Remove Unused Extensions/Templates
Old or rarely updated extensions are often hacker entry points. If you’re no longer using them, it’s best to remove them to avoid security risks.
3. Use Strong Username & Password
Avoid default usernames and passwords such as admin, admin123, password, etc. Your password should contain a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. If possible, enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) in Joomla.
4. Protect the Administrator Folder
Change the default login URL /administrator or /panel/administrator to something unique with plugins like AdminExile. You can also add password protection via .htaccess or restrict access by IP whitelist.
5. Set Proper File & Folder Permissions
Folders: 0755
Files: 0644
Never use 0777, because it means anyone can read, write, and execute the file. If necessary, restrict access so that only the root or admin can edit or upload files.
6. Regular Backups
Use backup extensions such as Akeeba Backup, and store your backups on another server or in the cloud.
7. Use a Web Application Firewall (WAF)
Install security extensions like RSFirewall or Admin Tools, or use server-side WAF services like Cloudflare or Sucuri. This way, malicious scripts or backdoors can be detected and blocked automatically.
8. Monitoring & Logs
Enable Joomla logs to monitor suspicious activity. If possible, use IDS/IPS (Intrusion Detection/Prevention System).
9. Secure the Server
Don’t just secure Joomla, but also the server environment (Apache/Nginx, PHP, and database).
Disable dangerous PHP functions like exec, shell_exec, etc.
Make sure sensitive files like config.php or configuration.php are not publicly accessible.
Conclusion:
If you need a more complex system, suitable for portals, multi-user systems, membership websites, or large organizations → Joomla is the better choice.
But if you’re just starting out or prefer a simpler and beginner-friendly platform → WordPress is more suitable.
That’s all from me, thank you for reading.
Wassalamualaikum.
