MainWP Vulnerability Checker 5.0

The MainWP Vulnerability Checker Extension is a critical security add-on for the MainWP Dashboard (the centralized management system for multiple WordPress sites). Its primary function is to automatically scan all your connected child sites for known vulnerabilities in their installed plugins and themes.

This centralization allows you to proactively identify and address security risks across your entire portfolio from a single screen.

🛡️ Core Functionality and Data Sources

The extension works by comparing the versions of plugins and themes installed on your child sites against a professional, regularly updated vulnerability database.

It uses two main APIs for its data:

MainWP NVD API (National Vulnerability Database, NIST): This is a free, robust API based on the U.S. government repository for security management data. It is available to all MainWP users.

WPScan Vulnerability Database API: This is a comprehensive, paid database that offers real-time updates and often includes information on premium plugins and themes, which the free NVD might miss. Users with a paid WPScan subscription can connect to this for enhanced coverage.

⚙️ Key Features for Managers

Centralized Vulnerability Scan: Run a security scan across all your managed sites with a single click from the MainWP Dashboard.

Automatic Scanning: You can configure the extension to automatically check for vulnerabilities when you sync your child sites, ensuring continuous monitoring without manual intervention.

Detailed Reporting: Displays a clear, concise list of vulnerable plugins and themes on each site, along with details about the security issue (e.g., the CVE, the flaw, and the fixed version).

Direct Action: Once a vulnerability is identified, you can take immediate action directly from the MainWP dashboard, such as:

Updating the vulnerable plugin/theme.

Deleting the vulnerable plugin/theme.

False-Positive Management: Includes an "Ignore" function that allows you to mark specific findings as false positives, preventing them from cluttering future scan results.

Security Insight: Provides proactive information on outdated or compromised software, allowing you to patch issues before they can be exploited.

💡 Summary

The MainWP Vulnerability Checker is an Essential extension for all MainWP users, whether you use the free or Pro version. It shifts security management from a reactive, site-by-site chore to a centralized, proactive system, ensuring you are always aware of high-risk vulnerabilities across your entire network.

Would you like to know how the Vulnerability Checker compares to other MainWP security extensions like the Sucuri or Wordfence integrations?