Here are 10 common WordPress errors and how to fix them:
1. White Screen of Death (WSOD)
Cause: This is usually caused by a PHP error, plugin conflicts, or theme issues.
Fix:
• Increase memory limit by adding define(‘WP_MEMORY_LIMIT’, ’64M’); to your wp-config.php.
• Deactivate all plugins via FTP by renaming the plugins folder.
• Switch to a default theme by renaming your current theme’s folder.
2. Internal Server Error (500)
Cause: This is typically due to corrupted .htaccess files, plugin conflicts, or exceeded PHP memory limits.
Fix:
• Rename the .htaccess file to .htaccess_old and refresh your site. Then, go to Settings > Permalinks and save to generate a new .htaccess.
• Increase PHP memory limit as mentioned above.
• Deactivate plugins to identify the faulty one.
3. Error Establishing a Database Connection
Cause: Incorrect database credentials, a corrupted database, or server issues.
Fix:
• Check wp-config.php for correct database credentials.
• Repair the database by adding define(‘WP_ALLOW_REPAIR’, true); to wp-config.php and visiting http://yoursite.com/wp-admin/maint/repair.php.
• Contact your host to ensure the database server is running.
4. 404 Error on Posts
Cause: This often happens when the .htaccess file is missing or corrupted.
Fix:
• Go to Settings > Permalinks and simply click Save Changes to refresh the .htaccess file.
• Ensure the .htaccess file has the correct rewrite rules.
5. Sidebar Below Content
Cause: HTML/CSS issues, often from improperly closed HTML tags.
Fix:
• Check for unclosed div tags in your theme’s files.
• Validate your site’s HTML.
6. Memory Exhausted Error
Cause: PHP memory limit is too low.
Fix:
• Increase memory limit by adding define(‘WP_MEMORY_LIMIT’, ’64M’); to your wp-config.php.
• If on shared hosting, ask your host for an increase.
7. Connection Timed Out
Cause: Overloaded server resources, heavy plugins, or theme issues.
Fix:
• Deactivate plugins and switch to a default theme.
• Increase PHP memory limit.
• Consider upgrading your hosting plan.
8. WordPress Stuck in Maintenance Mode
Cause: Failed or interrupted update process.
Fix:
• Delete the .maintenance file in your WordPress root directory via FTP.
9. Cannot Upload Images
Cause: Incorrect file permissions or memory issues.
Fix:
• Set file permissions to 755 for directories and 644 for files.
• Increase PHP memory limit.
10. Scheduled Maintenance Errors
Cause: Stuck .maintenance file after an update.
Fix:
• Delete the .maintenance file from your WordPress root directory via FTP.
General Troubleshooting Tips:
• Enable Debugging: Add define(‘WP_DEBUG’, true); to wp-config.php to display errors.
• Use Reliable Hosting: Ensure your hosting provider offers adequate resources and support.
• Regular Backups: Always keep backups of your site to quickly restore in case of major issues.
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By following these fixes, you can resolve most common WordPress errors and maintain a smooth-running site.