Installing WordPress is easy—but leaving the default settings unchanged can hurt your website’s security, performance, SEO, and user experience. Many beginners (and even experienced users) overlook critical settings that should be adjusted right after installation.
At WPDelta, we audit WordPress websites daily, and these are the most common settings mistakes we see. Below are 8 WordPress settings you must change immediately, explained in detail so you can optimize your site from day one.
1. Change Your Site Title and Tagline
Your site title and tagline shape your first impression. They help visitors instantly understand who you are and what your website offers. A clear title builds trust, improves SEO, and helps the right people find your site faster. Simple words here can make a big difference.
Where to find it:
Settings → General
What to do:
- Set a clear site title that reflects your brand
- Write a concise tagline describing what your site offers
WPDelta Tip:
Include your main keyword naturally in the title or tagline.
2. Update Your WordPress Permalink Structure
Clean URLs are easier to read, share, and rank on Google. A good permalink structure helps users trust your links and improves SEO at the same time.
Where to find it:
Settings → Permalinks
What to do:
- Select Post name as your permalink structure
- Avoid URLs with numbers or dates
Example:
wpdelta.com/wordpress-speed-optimization
instead of
wpdelta.com/?p=123
3. Set Your Time Zone Correctly
Wrong time zones can mess up post schedules and analytics. Setting the correct one keeps your content timely and professional.
Where to find it:
Settings → General
Why it matters:
Incorrect time zones can cause scheduling issues and confusion.
What to do:
- Set your local time zone
- Choose correct date and time formats
WPDelta Tip:
This helps with scheduled posts and analytics accuracy.
4. Enable Search Engine Visibility
If search engines can’t see your site, you won’t get traffic. This setting ensures your website is discoverable on Google and other search platforms.
Where to find it:
Settings → Reading
Why it matters:
Many sites accidentally block search engines.
What to do:
- Make sure “Discourage search engines” is unchecked
WPDelta Tip:
Always double-check this setting after launching your site.
5. Configure Discussion (Comment) Settings
Default comment settings invite spam. Proper controls protect your site, improve user experience, and keep discussions meaningful.
Where to find it:
Settings → Discussion
What to do:
- Disable comments if not needed
- Enable comment moderation
- Turn off comments for older posts
WPDelta Tip:
Use anti-spam plugins alongside these settings.
6. Adjust Media Image Sizes
Unoptimized images slow down your website. Correct image sizes improve page speed and create a smoother browsing experience.
Where to find it:
Settings → Media
What to do:
- Set proper thumbnail, medium, and large sizes
- Avoid generating unnecessary image versions
WPDelta Tip:
Optimized images improve page speed significantly.
7. Remove the Default Admin Username
“Admin” is the first username hackers try. Changing it adds a simple but powerful layer of security to your site.
Where to find it:
Users → All Users
What to do:
- Create a new admin user with a unique username
- Delete or downgrade the old admin account
WPDelta Tip:
Always use strong passwords and two-factor authentication.
8. Set Up Automatic Updates Carefully
Updates keep your site secure and stable. Managing them properly prevents bugs while protecting your website from threats.
Where to find it:
Dashboard → Updates
What to do:
- Enable automatic updates for minor core updates
- Monitor plugin and theme updates regularly
WPDelta Tip:
Test updates on staging sites for business-critical websites.
Bonus Settings You Should Review
- Default category name
- Homepage display (static vs blog)
- Privacy policy page
- User role permissions
FAQs
Do I really need to change WordPress settings after installation?
Yes. Default WordPress settings are basic and not optimized for security, speed, or SEO. Making these changes early helps prevent future issues.
Which WordPress setting is most important for beginners?
Permalink structure and site visibility are the most critical. They directly affect how your site appears in search results.
Can wrong WordPress settings slow down my website?
Absolutely. Image sizes, updates, and comment settings all impact performance and load speed.
Are these settings safe to change on a live website?
Yes, but it’s best to make changes carefully or back up your site first—especially when managing updates.
Can WPDelta handle these settings for me?
Yes. WPDelta ensures your WordPress settings are configured correctly for performance, security, and long-term growth.
Final Thoughts
Changing these WordPress settings immediately can save you from security risks, SEO issues, and performance problems later.
At WPDelta, we ensure every WordPress website is configured correctly from the start—so it’s secure, fast, and search-engine friendly.
