WordPress is a powerful platform for building websites, but like any technology, it’s not immune to errors and issues. From minor glitches to more complex problems, understanding how to troubleshoot common WordPress errors is crucial for maintaining a smooth-running website. In this guide, we’ll explore some frequently encountered WordPress errors and provide step-by-step solutions to help you resolve them effectively.
White Screen of Death (WSOD) Error
If your website displays a blank white screen, making it inaccessible, here’s how you can fix it:
- Disable plugins and switch to a default theme to identify the culprit.
- Check for PHP errors by enabling WordPress debugging in the wp-config.php file.
- Increase PHP memory limit in wp-config.php or .htaccess file.
Internal Server Error (500) Error
When your site displays a “500 Internal Server Error” message, you can:
- Deactivate all plugins and then activate them one by one to pinpoint the problematic one.
- Check the .htaccess file for errors or corruption.
- Increase PHP memory limit if necessary.
404 Page Not Found Error
Users encounter a 404 Page Not Found error when accessing certain pages. The solution to fix this common WordPress error is:
- Update permalinks by going to Settings > Permalinks and clicking “Save Changes.”
- Check for typos or incorrect URL structures in your links and content.
- Use redirection plugins to fix broken links.
Connection Timed Out Error
If your site fails to load, the browsers may show a “Connection Timed Out” message. To fix this:
- Clear browser cache and cookies or try accessing the site from another browser or device.
- Contact your web hosting provider to check for server-related issues.
- Disable VPN or proxy services that might be causing connectivity problems.
Database Connection Error
Your site displays a message indicating that it can’t establish a database connection. To troubleshoot this issue:
- Check your database credentials in the wp-config.php file.
- Confirm that your database server is running and accessible.
- Repair your database using phpMyAdmin or a plugin.
Mixed Content Warning Error
If our site displays a mixed content warning when accessed over HTTPS, you should:
- Update all internal links and references to use “https://” instead of “http://.”
- Use a plugin or manual methods to fix insecure content, such as images and scripts.
Read: Common SEO Errors That You Need To Fix
Parse Error in PHP Error
Your site displays a “Parse error: syntax error” due to incorrect PHP code. To troubleshoot this WordPress error:
- Review the code you recently added or edited for syntax errors.
- Restore the code from a backup if needed.
- Use an FTP client to access your site’s files and fix the error.
Plugin Compatibility Issues Error
A plugin update can also cause conflict or break your website. So, to fix this issue:
- Deactivate the problematic plugin using FTP if your site is inaccessible.
- Contact the plugin developer for support or search for alternatives.
- Test plugin updates on a staging site before applying them to your live site.
Read: Different CMS Platforms: Features and Benefits
Conclusion
Being equipped with the knowledge to troubleshoot common WordPress errors empowers you to maintain a functional and reliable website. By following the solutions provided for each error, you can efficiently resolve issues, prevent downtime, and ensure a seamless experience for both yourself and your visitors. Also, remember to always back up your website before making significant changes to avoid data loss.