Protect Uploads Pro for WordPress
Protect Uploads Pro extends WordPress media protection with tools for controlling how uploaded files and images are viewed, accessed, and downloaded. It is designed for sites that need more than basic directory protection, especially when media files must be shared selectively or presented with visible ownership information.
The paid edition adds image watermarks with bulk operations, expiring download links, role-based access with server-level enforcement, hotlink protection, download analytics, and a Protected Download block. These capabilities can support private resources, client deliverables, downloadable documents, image portfolios, and other media areas where access needs to be managed more deliberately.
Key protection features
- Image watermarks: Add text to uploaded images and apply watermark operations in bulk. Watermark settings include the text, position, opacity, and font size.
- Expiring download links: Provide download links that are intended to remain available for a limited period.
- Role-based access: Restrict access according to user roles, with server-level enforcement.
- Hotlink protection: Help control direct use of your media from other locations.
- Download analytics: Review information about downloads to better understand how protected files are being accessed.
- Protected Download block: Add protected downloads within WordPress content using the dedicated block.
Manage individual media files
Protect Uploads can secure individual media files with passwords. Multiple passwords may be assigned to one file, with custom labels to help distinguish different audiences or sharing contexts. Password protection works with images, PDFs, videos, and documents, making the feature suitable for mixed media libraries.
Access logging records activity for password-protected files, including the IP address and user agent. This gives site administrators a more detailed view of access events while working with protected media.
Protect the uploads directory
The plugin addresses browsing of the WordPress uploads directory by adding an index.php file at its root or configuring an .htaccess response that returns a 403 Forbidden error. The .htaccess option may be disabled depending on server settings. Built-in Site Health checks show whether the directory is protected from browsing, identify the server being used, and report risky file types found in the uploads folder.
Practical workflow
Configure protection from Settings → Media → Protect Uploads. Enable the controls relevant to your site, then edit a media item in the Media Library to reach its Password Protection section. Add one or more passwords and descriptive labels where needed. For images, choose the watermark text, position, opacity, and font size before applying the available watermark operations.
Installation
Add Protect Uploads Pro to your WordPress installation and activate it. Open the Protect Uploads settings under Media, review directory protection and media access options, and then configure individual files from the Media Library. The available interface includes English, Français, Español, and Italian.
