How to Restrict WordPress Content to Registered Users Only with Restrict Content Pro

Want to limit access to your premium content for registered or paying members? Many bloggers monetize their sites through subscriptions or one-time payments. In this guide, we'll walk you through restricting content to logged-in WordPress users using Restrict Content Pro, a powerful plugin we've relied on for building robust membership sites.

Restrict Content Pro stands out as our top choice for creating full-featured membership websites with paid subscriptions.

Why Choose Restrict Content Pro?

This premium plugin builds on the excellent free Restrict Content plugin, offering advanced features and dedicated support.

If budget is a concern, the free version provides solid basics, though with fewer options.

Here's what makes Restrict Content Pro exceptional in our experience:

• Effortless installation, setup, and management.
• Clean, efficient code for reliable performance.
• Unlimited subscription levels with flexible pricing.
• Seamless integration with PayPal, Stripe, Braintree, and 2Checkout.
• Simple shortcodes for login, registration, and account pages.
• Unlimited discount codes for promotions.
• Comprehensive reports to track site performance and revenue.

Setting Up Restrict Content Pro in WordPress

Start by installing and activating Restrict Content Pro. It adds a "Restrict" menu to your WordPress admin sidebar.

Before diving into settings, create essential pages: login, registration, success, and account management.

For the login page, go to Pages » Add New, title it as desired, add the [login_form] shortcode, and publish.

Repeat for the registration page using [register_form].

Create a success page for post-signup redirects—no shortcode needed; a simple thank-you message works.

For account details, use [subscription_details] on a dedicated page.

With pages ready, head to Restrict » Settings in the General tab.

Enter your license key for updates and support. Select your created pages for registration, success, account, and billing.

Switch to the Payments tab to configure gateways. Choose a currency, enable desired processors (multiple supported), and use sandbox mode until launch.

Configure each gateway with your credentials: PayPal email for Standard, API keys for Pro/Express or others—retrieve from your provider's dashboard.

The Emails tab lets you customize notifications. If emails fail, see our guide on fixing WordPress email issues.

In the Misc tab, tweak login redirects, disable account sharing, add CSS, enable IPN, or integrate reCAPTCHA against spam.

Creating Subscription Levels

Now, define access tiers. Go to Restrict » Membership Levels.

For instance, create a "Premium" level with pricing, duration (or unlimited), and set to Active.

Assign levels when restricting content—free levels ($0) work for registered users too.

Restricting Content with Restrict Content Pro

Protect posts, pages, or custom types individually via the "Restrict this content" meta box below the editor.

Limit by role, capability, or level. Use shortcodes inline: [restrict]Premium content here...[/restrict].

Managing Members and Payments

View members at Restrict » Members: edit details, payments, status. Deactivate subscriptions without deleting accounts.

Track payments at Restrict » Payments; export CSV via Restrict » Export.

Adding Discount Codes

Boost sign-ups with promo codes at Restrict » Discount Codes. Set fixed/percentage discounts, expiration, and usage limits.

This guide should help you secure your WordPress content for registered users. Check our comparison of the top 5 drag-and-drop WordPress page builders too.

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