How to fix internal server error in WordPress: Step by Step

Encountering an internal server error in WordPress can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts the functionality of your website. This type of error is typically indicated by a “500 Internal Server Error” message. Fortunately, there are several ways to diagnose and fix this issue. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of resolving internal server errors in WordPress.

Understanding Internal Server Error

An internal server error is a generic error message that indicates something has gone wrong on the server but does not specify what the exact problem is. Common causes include:

• Corrupted .htaccess File: Issues with your .htaccess file can cause server errors.
• Plugin or Theme Conflicts: Incompatible or poorly coded plugins or themes can trigger this error.
• Exceeding PHP Memory Limit: When your site exceeds the allocated PHP memory limit, it can lead to internal server errors.
• Corrupt Core Files: Corrupt WordPress core files can cause server errors.
• Server Issues: Sometimes, the problem might be with your hosting server itself.

1. Backup Your Website

Before making any changes, it’s crucial to back up your website. This ensures you can restore your site if something goes wrong during the troubleshooting process.

• Use a Backup Plugin: Plugins like UpdraftPlus, BackupBuddy, and Duplicator can help you easily back up your WordPress site.
• Manual Backup: Alternatively, you can manually back up your files and database via FTP and phpMyAdmin.

2. Check the .htaccess File

The .htaccess file is a configuration file used by the server. A corrupted .htaccess file is a common cause of internal server errors. Here’s how to check and fix it:

• Access File Manager: Log in to your hosting account and navigate to the File Manager or use an FTP client to access your site’s files.
• Locate .htaccess File: Find the .htaccess file in the root directory of your WordPress installation.
• Rename the File: Rename the .htaccess file to .htaccess_old to disable it.
• Check Your Site: Visit your website to see if the error is resolved. If it is, go to the WordPress dashboard and navigate to Settings Permalinks, then click Save Changes to generate a new .htaccess file.

3. Deactivate All Plugins

Plugin conflicts are another common cause of internal server errors. Deactivating all plugins can help you identify if a plugin is causing the issue.

• Access Plugins: Log in to your WordPress dashboard and go to Plugins > Installed Plugins.
• Deactivate All Plugins: Select all plugins and choose Deactivate from the Bulk Actions menu, then click Apply.
• Check Your Site: Visit your website to see if the error is resolved. If it is, reactivate each plugin one by one to identify the problematic plugin.

4. Switch to a Default Theme

Sometimes, the issue might be with your theme. Switching to a default WordPress theme can help you determine if your theme is causing the error.

• Access Themes: Log in to your WordPress dashboard and go to Appearance > Themes.
• Activate Default Theme: Activate a default theme like Twenty Twenty-One or Twenty Twenty-Two.
• Check Your Site: Visit your website to see if the error is resolved. If it is, the problem is likely with your theme.

5. Increase PHP Memory Limit

Exceeding the PHP memory limit can cause internal server errors. Increasing the memory limit can help resolve this issue.

• Edit wp-config.php File: Access your site’s root directory using FTP or File Manager and locate the wp-config.php file.
• Add Memory Limit Code: Add the following code just before the line that says “That’s all, stop editing! Happy blogging.”
• Save and Upload: Save the changes and upload the wp-config.php file back to your server.
• Check Your Site: Visit your website to see if the error is resolved.

6. Re-upload Core Files

Corrupt WordPress core files can cause internal server errors. Re-uploading the core files can help resolve this issue.

• Download WordPress: Download the latest version of WordPress from wordpress.org.
• Extract Files: Extract the downloaded zip file on your computer.
• Upload Files: Using FTP or File Manager, upload the wp-admin and wp-includes folders from the extracted files to your website’s root directory. Choose to overwrite the existing files.
• Check Your Site: Visit your website to see if the error is resolved.

7. Check File Permissions

Incorrect file permissions can cause internal server errors. Ensure your files and directories have the correct permissions.

• Access File Manager: Log in to your hosting account and navigate to the File Manager or use an FTP client to access your site’s files.
• Check Permissions: Ensure directories have 755 permissions and files have 644 permissions. Adjust if necessary.
• Check Your Site: Visit your website to see if the error is resolved.

8. Contact Your Hosting Provider

If you’ve tried all the steps above and the error persists, it’s time to contact your hosting provider. They can help identify server-side issues that might be causing the error.

• Submit a Support Ticket: Provide details about the error and the steps you’ve taken to troubleshoot it.
• Follow Hosting Provider’s Advice: Follow the instructions provided by your hosting provider to resolve the issue.

Fixing internal server errors in WordPress can be challenging, but following these steps can help you identify and resolve the issue. If you need further assistance or have any questions, contact us at +91 91189 11171. You can also reach out to us on WhatsApp.