Common WordPress Errors: Troubleshoot and Fix Your Site

Category: Blog

Introduction

Why WordPress Sites Encounter Errors

WordPress is a powerful and flexible platform, but errors can happen for many reasons. Common causes include plugin or theme conflicts, outdated WordPress versions, server issues, or coding mistakes. Even small problems, like an incorrectly edited file, can cause a website to display errors or stop working properly. Understanding why errors occur is the first step in keeping your website running smoothly.  For more info: Common WordPress Errors: Troubleshoot and Fix Your Site

The Importance of Troubleshooting WordPress Effectively

Troubleshooting WordPress errors quickly is important to avoid downtime, maintain SEO rankings, and keep visitors happy. A slow response to errors can hurt your reputation and even your business if your website is used for sales or lead generation. Knowing how to identify and fix errors properly ensures your site stays functional and secure.

Understanding WordPress Error Messages

WordPress error messages are usually descriptive, giving clues about the cause of the problem. For example, a “White Screen of Death” or “500 Internal Server Error” indicates different types of issues. By understanding what each error message means, you can apply the correct fix instead of guessing, saving time and reducing the risk of further problems.

Most Common WordPress Errors

White Screen of Death (WSoD)

Symptoms

  • Your website shows a completely blank white screen.

  • Sometimes only certain pages are affected.

  • Admin dashboard may also be inaccessible.

Common Causes

  • Conflicts between plugins or themes.

  • PHP errors in code.

  • Low PHP memory limit.

  • Corrupted WordPress core files.

How to Fix It

  1. Deactivate all plugins via FTP or hosting file manager to check for conflicts.

  2. Switch to a default theme like Twenty Twenty-Three.

  3. Increase PHP memory limit in wp-config.php.

  4. Enable debugging to see error details: add define('WP_DEBUG', true); in wp-config.php.

  5. Reinstall WordPress core files if necessary.

404 Page Not Found Error

Symptoms

  • Visitors see a “404 Not Found” page instead of your content.

  • Links may appear broken even though the page exists.

Common Causes

  • Broken links from deleted or moved pages.

  • Changes in permalinks structure.

  • Missing or corrupted .htaccess file.

Step-by-Step Fix

  1. Check permalinks: Go to Settings → Permalinks and click “Save Changes” to refresh.

  2. Restore missing pages or posts or redirect URLs using a plugin like Redirection.

  3. Check .htaccess file for corruption and regenerate it if necessary.

500 Internal Server Error

Symptoms

  • Your website displays a generic “500 Internal Server Error.”

  • The website may load intermittently or not at all.

Common Causes

  • PHP errors in plugins or themes.

  • Server configuration issues.

  • Memory limit exhaustion.

How to Fix

  1. Check .htaccess file: Rename it to see if the site works.

  2. Increase PHP memory limit in wp-config.php.

  3. Deactivate plugins and switch to a default theme to isolate conflicts.

  4. Check server error logs or contact hosting support.

Error Establishing a Database Connection

Symptoms

  • The website cannot load and shows “Error Establishing a Database Connection.”

  • Admin dashboard is also inaccessible.

Common Causes

  • Incorrect database login credentials in wp-config.php.

  • Corrupted database.

  • Server issues affecting database access.

How to Fix

  1. Check database credentials in wp-config.php for accuracy.

  2. Repair the database using define('WP_ALLOW_REPAIR', true); in wp-config.php.

  3. Contact your hosting provider if the server or database is down.

  4. Restore a backup if the database is corrupted beyond repair.

Critical Error on This Website

Understanding the Error

The “Critical Error on This Website” message is a generic WordPress alert indicating that something is preventing your site from loading properly. It often appears on the front-end or admin dashboard and stops visitors from accessing your website.

Causes

  • Conflicts between plugins or themes.

  • PHP errors caused by incompatible code.

  • Outdated WordPress core or server software.

How to Resolve

  1. Enable WordPress debugging to see the specific error: add define('WP_DEBUG', true); in wp-config.php.

  2. Deactivate all plugins via FTP or hosting file manager and reactivate one by one to find the culprit.

  3. Switch to a default theme like Twenty Twenty-Three to rule out theme issues.

  4. Update WordPress core, plugins, and PHP to the latest supported versions.

WordPress Stuck in Maintenance Mode

Why It Happens

When WordPress updates a plugin, theme, or core file, it temporarily enters maintenance mode. Sometimes, this process gets interrupted, leaving your site stuck in the “Unavailable for Scheduled Maintenance” state.

Fixing the Message

  1. Connect to your site via FTP or file manager.

  2. Locate the .maintenance file in the root directory of WordPress.

  3. Delete the .maintenance file.

  4. Refresh your website—your site should load normally.

Syntax Errors and Fatal PHP Errors

Causes

  • Coding mistakes in theme or plugin files.

  • Corrupted PHP files.

  • Incorrectly edited functions.php or custom scripts.

How to Fix via FTP

  1. Connect to your website via FTP.

  2. Navigate to the file causing the error (WordPress usually mentions it in the error message).

  3. Correct the coding mistake or replace the corrupted file with a backup.

  4. Save changes and reload your website.

WordPress Not Sending Emails

Causes

  • Hosting server issues.

  • Incorrect PHP mail configuration.

  • SMTP problems with your email provider.

Solutions

  1. Use an SMTP plugin like WP Mail SMTP to send emails through a reliable mail server.

  2. Check hosting settings to ensure PHP mail is enabled.

  3. Verify email credentials and test sending.

  4. Consider using third-party services like SendGrid or Mailgun for more reliable email delivery.

Locked Out of WordPress Admin

Causes

  • Forgotten username or password.

  • Plugin conflicts affecting login page.

  • Brute-force attacks or security plugin restrictions.

Step-by-Step Recovery

  1. Use “Lost your password?” link to reset via email.

  2. If email recovery fails, reset the password via phpMyAdmin in the database.

  3. Deactivate plugins via FTP to rule out login conflicts.

  4. Temporarily rename the theme folder to default to rule out theme issues.

Slow WordPress Site

Causes

  • Low-quality or overloaded hosting.

  • Lack of caching or optimization plugins.

  • Too many plugins or poorly coded themes.

  • Large images or media files.

Fixing Performance Issues

  1. Optimize images using plugins like Smush or ShortPixel.

  2. Enable caching with plugins like WP Rocket or W3 Total Cache.

  3. Limit plugins to only essential ones and remove unnecessary scripts.

  4. Use a lightweight, well-coded theme.

  5. Consider upgrading hosting to a managed WordPress plan or VPS.

  6. Implement a Content Delivery Network (CDN) to serve content faster globally.

Complete WordPress Troubleshooting Checklist

Research the Exact Error Message

The first step in fixing any WordPress issue is understanding it. WordPress usually displays an error message or code that gives clues about the problem. Search the exact message online or check WordPress support forums. This helps you find solutions specific to your issue.

Create a Full Backup of WordPress Site

Before making any changes, always create a full backup of your website. This includes files, database, themes, plugins, and media. If anything goes wrong, you can restore your site to its previous state without losing data. Use plugins like UpdraftPlus or All-in-One WP Migration for easy backups.

Check WordPress Core, Plugins, and Theme Updates

Outdated software is a common cause of errors. Make sure your WordPress core, plugins, and theme are up-to-date. Updates often fix bugs, improve security, and enhance compatibility. Always update one component at a time and test your site after each update.

Clear Browser Cache

Sometimes, the problem appears to persist because your browser is loading an old version of the page. Clear your browser cache or open your site in an incognito window to see if the issue is resolved.

Clear WordPress Cache

If you use caching plugins like WP Rocket, W3 Total Cache, or server-level caching, clear the cache. Old cached files can show outdated content or errors, making it seem like the problem is still there.

Deactivate All Plugins and Test

Plugins are often the cause of WordPress errors. Deactivate all plugins and check if the problem disappears. If it does, reactivate plugins one by one to identify the one causing the issue.

Switch to Default WordPress Theme

Sometimes errors are caused by themes. Switch to a default WordPress theme like Twenty Twenty-Three. If the problem disappears, your previous theme may have coding issues or conflicts.

Refresh Permalink Structure

Broken links or 404 errors can often be fixed by refreshing permalinks. Go to Settings → Permalinks and click Save Changes without modifying anything. This rebuilds your .htaccess file and updates the URL structure.

Backup & Delete .htaccess File

The .htaccess file controls how your server serves pages. A corrupted .htaccess file can cause errors like 500 Internal Server Error or broken links. Backup the file via FTP, then delete it. WordPress will regenerate a new .htaccess automatically when you save permalinks.

Fix WordPress Address & Site URL

Incorrect WordPress Address (URL) or Site URL settings can cause login issues, redirection loops, or broken links. Check these settings in Settings → General. Make sure both URLs match your domain and use https if you have SSL installed.

Check PHP Version & Increase Memory Limit

Running an outdated PHP version or a low memory limit can cause errors and slowdowns. Check your PHP version in your hosting dashboard and upgrade if necessary. Increase the memory limit in wp-config.php by adding:

define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '256M');

Review PHP & Server Error Logs

Server and PHP error logs contain detailed information about what is causing issues. Access logs via your hosting dashboard or via FTP in the logs folder. Reviewing these logs can help identify the exact plugin, theme, or code causing the error.

Reinstall WordPress Core Files

Corrupted WordPress core files can create persistent issues. Reinstalling WordPress without affecting your content ensures all core files are clean. Go to Dashboard → Updates → Reinstall WordPress, or replace core files via FTP.

WordPress Core, Database & Server-Level Fixes

Repair Corrupted WordPress Core Files

Corrupted WordPress core files can cause critical errors, white screens, or broken functionality. This often happens due to incomplete updates, hacked files, or accidental modifications.

How to fix it:

  1. Download the latest WordPress version from wordpress.org.

  2. Extract the files and upload all core files except wp-content via FTP.

  3. Replace the old files on your server to ensure the WordPress core is clean without affecting your content.

Troubleshoot Database Connection Errors

“Error Establishing a Database Connection” is a common issue when WordPress cannot communicate with the database. This can make the entire site inaccessible.

Common fixes:

  1. Verify database credentials in wp-config.php (database name, username, password, and host).

  2. Repair the database by adding define('WP_ALLOW_REPAIR', true); in wp-config.php and visiting /wp-admin/maint/repair.php.

  3. Contact your hosting provider if the server or database is down.

Review Hosting Provider & Server Configuration

Sometimes WordPress errors stem from server settings or hosting limitations. Shared hosting, low memory, or outdated PHP can trigger issues.

Action steps:

  1. Ensure your hosting meets WordPress requirements (PHP 8.x, MySQL 5.7+, or MariaDB 10.3+).

  2. Check server error logs for detailed information.

  3. Upgrade to managed WordPress hosting or a VPS if server resources are insufficient.

Fix PHP Memory, Syntax, or Version Issues

Low PHP memory, syntax errors in files, or outdated PHP versions can cause errors like WSoD or critical errors.

Solutions:

  1. Increase memory limit in wp-config.php:

    define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '256M');

  2. Enable debugging to locate syntax or PHP errors:

    define('WP_DEBUG', true);

  3. Update PHP to the latest supported version recommended by your host.

Using FTP to Fix WordPress Errors

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a safe way to troubleshoot WordPress issues without accessing the dashboard. You can deactivate plugins, replace files, or edit configurations directly.

Common FTP fixes:

  1. Rename the plugins folder to deactivate all plugins.

  2. Rename your theme folder to switch to a default WordPress theme.

  3. Replace corrupted core files with a fresh WordPress download.

Preventing WordPress Errors in the Future

Regular WordPress Core, Plugin, and Theme Updates

Updating your WordPress site regularly ensures compatibility, improves security, and prevents errors caused by outdated code. Schedule updates and test them carefully before deploying on a live site.

Use Quality, Compatible Plugins & Themes Only

Poorly coded or incompatible plugins and themes are a major source of WordPress errors. Use trusted plugins from reputable developers and avoid installing multiple plugins that serve the same purpose.

Maintain PHP Version Compatibility

Always use a PHP version compatible with WordPress and your plugins. Outdated PHP can slow your site and cause errors, while the latest supported version ensures better performance and security.

Reliable Hosting & Server Monitoring

Choose hosting providers that specialize in WordPress and offer sufficient resources. Monitor server performance regularly and keep track of uptime, memory usage, and server errors to prevent issues before they affect your site.

Regular Backups and Error Log Checks

Backups are essential in case something goes wrong. Regularly check your WordPress error logs to detect small issues early. Combining backups with monitoring ensures you can recover quickly and avoid major downtime.

When to Seek Professional WordPress Help

Signs You Need Expert Assistance

While many WordPress errors can be fixed with basic troubleshooting, some problems require professional help. Signs include:

  • Errors persist despite following standard troubleshooting steps.

  • Your website experiences frequent downtime or crashes.

  • Complex database or server-level issues appear in error logs.

  • Custom coding or plugin conflicts are beyond your technical skills.

If you notice these issues, consulting a WordPress developer or expert can save time, prevent data loss, and ensure your site runs smoothly.

How Maintenance Services Prevent Errors

Regular WordPress maintenance services monitor your website for errors, update plugins and themes, optimize databases, and check performance. These services help prevent common issues such as plugin conflicts, database errors, and security vulnerabilities. Using a maintenance plan ensures that small problems are fixed before they become major errors.

WordPress Support Packages and Services (CTA)

Professional WordPress support services provide expert help when you need it. Services often include troubleshooting, performance optimization, backups, security monitoring, and updates. Hiring experts gives you peace of mind, knowing your website is in safe hands.

For reliable WordPress support and troubleshooting, check out Creation Wave’s WordPress services.

Conclusion

Key Takeaways for Troubleshooting WordPress

  • WordPress errors can occur due to plugins, themes, server issues, or outdated software.

  • Understanding error messages helps you identify the right solution quickly.

  • Following a structured troubleshooting checklist reduces downtime and keeps your site functional.

  • Advanced fixes such as repairing core files, database optimization, and server checks solve persistent problems.

Maintaining a Healthy WordPress Site

Regular updates, backups, monitoring, and using quality plugins and themes are essential for a stable, error-free WordPress website. Preventive measures, combined with periodic maintenance, ensure long-term performance, better user experience, and improved SEO.

Consistent attention to WordPress health prevents errors from escalating and keeps your website fast, secure, and reliable for visitors.

FAQs

Why is my WordPress site showing a white screen?
The “White Screen of Death” (WSoD) usually happens due to plugin or theme conflicts, PHP errors, or low memory limits. To fix it, deactivate all plugins via FTP, switch to a default theme like Twenty Twenty-Three, increase the PHP memory limit in wp-config.php, and enable debugging to identify the specific error.

How do I fix the 500 Internal Server Error?
A 500 Internal Server Error is caused by PHP issues, server misconfigurations, or plugin/theme conflicts. You can try:

  • Renaming the .htaccess file and regenerating it.

  • Increasing PHP memory limit.

  • Deactivating all plugins and switching to a default theme.

  • Checking server error logs or contacting your hosting provider.

What causes “Error Establishing a Database Connection”?
This error occurs when WordPress cannot communicate with the database. Common reasons include:

  • Incorrect database credentials in wp-config.php.

  • Corrupted database tables.

  • Server issues affecting database access.
    Solutions include verifying credentials, repairing the database, or contacting your host.

How do I recover from being locked out of WordPress admin?
You may be locked out due to forgotten passwords, plugin conflicts, or security restrictions. Recovery steps include:

  • Using the “Lost your password?” link.

  • Resetting passwords via phpMyAdmin.

  • Deactivating plugins via FTP.

  • Temporarily switching to a default theme to resolve conflicts.

How can I improve WordPress speed and performance?
Slow websites are caused by poor hosting, too many plugins, unoptimized images, or lack of caching. To improve speed:

  • Optimize images with plugins like Smush or ShortPixel.

  • Enable caching using WP Rocket or W3 Total Cache.

  • Limit unnecessary plugins and scripts.

  • Use a lightweight theme and a CDN for faster content delivery.

How do I fix plugin or theme conflicts?
Plugin or theme conflicts occur when code from different sources clashes, causing errors or slowdowns. To fix:

  • Deactivate all plugins and reactivate one by one to identify the conflicting plugin.

  • Switch to a default theme to check if your current theme is causing the problem.

  • Update plugins and themes to the latest version.

  • Contact developers if the conflict persists.

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