Secret keys are random data sequences inserted into the wp-config.php file to enhance your site’s security. They strengthen protection by preventing access to cookies containing sensitive information and by securing the login page through password encryption.

By default, WordPress includes salt keys in the wp-config.php file to secure the four keys used by the system. When you remain logged into WordPress for an extended period, your login credentials are stored in cookies instead of a PHP session.

It is recommended that you change your salt keys regularly, ideally every two months, to make it more difficult for hackers. Regularly changing these keys strengthens your site’s security and reduces the risk of attacks.

To make this change, you can use the WordPress Salt Shaker API for a secure, manual update of your salt keys.