We are in the process of developing a multi-vendor marketplace and require a way for our initial vendors to access the site and upload their products prior to its public launch. The challenge is that many plugins, such as Force Login, redirect users to the WordPress admin area, which we want to avoid. We would like these vendors to have access to the frontend only, without any backend visibility. The desired functionality would be as follows: Entering the URL should direct users to a login landing page (similar to Facebook’s login page), where only vendors can log in to access the frontend. Once we are ready for the public launch, the login page should be removed, allowing unrestricted access for all visitors.
have you tried the “Paid Memberships Pro” plugin? even tho it focuses on paid membership, you can use its options to give access rights to frontend only. it’s pretty flexible and might suit your need of limiting access without going to the admin area. give it a shot!
Have you considered using “Theme My Login”? It can create a custom login page right on the frontend, and you can configure it to restrict access to the backend. What kind of custom fields or login steps are you planning for the vendors? Curious to hear more about your requirements!
A useful approach could be integrating a feature from a plugin like “Restrict Content Pro.” It allows you to restrict your WordPress site’s content by user role and manage access to your front-end resources only. Customize the login and registration process so that vendors can log in via the front-end login form. This way, vendors can access the required areas without encountering the WordPress admin backend, keeping the admin interface out of view until you’re ready for the public launch.