A modern, JWT-based authentication system for WordPress that provides enhanced security, REST API endpoints, OTP verification, and mobile app support. This plugin transforms WordPress from a traditional session-based authentication system into a modern, stateless, API-first authentication platform.
What This Plugin Does
WP Authenticator extends WordPress’s default authentication capabilities by providing:
- JWT Token-Based Authentication – Replace WordPress cookies with secure, stateless JWT tokens
- REST API First Approach – 20+ comprehensive API endpoints for complete authentication management
- Multi-Step Registration – Enhanced 3-step registration process with email verification
- OTP Security System – Email-based One-Time Password verification for enhanced security
- Mobile & Headless Support – Perfect for React Native, Flutter, Next.js, and other modern applications
- Advanced Security Features – Rate limiting, failed login attempt blocking, and enhanced security monitoring
How It Differs from Default WordPress Authentication
Default WordPress Authentication:
- Session-based – Uses PHP sessions and cookies tied to the server
- Limited API – Basic REST API with limited authentication endpoints
- Simple Registration – Single-step user registration without verification
- No Mobile Support – Not designed for mobile app authentication
- Basic Security – Limited rate limiting and security features
WP Authenticator Enhancement:
- Stateless JWT Tokens – No server-side sessions, perfect for distributed systems
- Comprehensive REST API – 20+ specialized endpoints for all authentication needs
- 3-Step Registration – Email verification, OTP confirmation, and secure account creation
- Mobile-First Design – Built specifically for mobile apps and SPA applications
- Advanced Security – IP-based rate limiting, failed login blocking, token refresh, and security monitoring
- Headless CMS Ready – Perfect for decoupled WordPress architectures
Key Differences Table:
| Feature | Default WordPress | WP Authenticator |
|---|---|---|
| Authentication Method | Session cookies | JWT tokens |
| Mobile App Support | Limited | Native support |
| Registration Process | Single step | 3-step with verification |
| API Endpoints | Basic | 20+ specialized endpoints |
| Security Features | Basic | Advanced (rate limiting, OTP) |
| Headless Support | Limited | Full support |
| Token Management | N/A | Refresh tokens, expiration |
| OTP Verification | No | Email-based OTP |
Core Features
Authentication System
- JWT Token Authentication – Secure, stateless authentication using Firebase JWT library
- Token Refresh Mechanism – Automatic token renewal for seamless user experience
- Multi-device Support – Users can authenticate across multiple devices simultaneously
- Logout Management – Secure token invalidation and logout functionality
Registration & Verification
- 3-Step Registration Process – Enhanced security with email verification before account creation
- OTP Email Verification – Prevent fake accounts with one-time password verification
- Session Management – Secure 30-minute registration sessions with automatic cleanup
- Auto-Login – Seamless authentication after successful registration completion
Security Features
- Rate Limiting – IP-based failed login attempt blocking (5 attempts = 15 minute block)
- Spam Prevention – OTP verification prevents automated account creation
- Security Monitoring – Admin dashboard with authentication statistics
- Secure Headers – Proper CORS and security headers for API endpoints
Developer Experience
- Organized Codebase – Endpoints logically organized in subfolders (
auth/,registration/,otp/, etc.) - Comprehensive Documentation – Complete API documentation with examples
- Test Scripts – Ready-to-use testing tools for development
- Backward Compatibility – All existing integrations continue to work seamlessly
If this plugin helps your project, please check repo: