Fixing Internal Server Error WordPress

Fixing Internal Server Error WordPress

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding the HTTP Error 500
3. Causes of the HTTP Error 500
   • Conflict Between Cookies and Cached Data
   • Problematic Plugins
   • New Theme Installation or Update
   • Faulty .htaccess File
   • Insufficient PHP Memory Limit
   • Enabling Error Display
   • Restoring Backup Files of the WordPress Website
4. Fixing the HTTP Error 500
   • Clearing Cookies and Cache
   • Deactivating Problematic Plugins
   • Changing the WordPress Theme
   • Creating a New .htaccess File
   • Increasing PHP Memory Limit
   • Enabling Error Display
   • Restoring Backup Files
5. Conclusion

Understanding and Fixing the HTTP Error 500

HTTP error 500, commonly known as the internal server error, is a frequent issue faced by website owners, especially those using WordPress. This error can be frustrating as it prevents visitors from accessing your website. However, with some troubleshooting steps, you can identify and fix the root causes of the HTTP error 500.

Causes of the HTTP Error 500

Conflict Between Cookies and Cached Data

One of the common causes of the HTTP error 500 is a conflict between the stored cookies and cache in your browser. To fix this, you can try clearing the cookies and cache in your browser settings. This can be done by accessing the privacy and security settings in Google Chrome and selecting the option to clear browsing data.

Problematic Plugins

Another common cause of the HTTP error 500 is a problematic plugin. If You recently installed or updated a plugin and encountered the error, it is worth deactivating the plugin to see if it resolves the issue. This can be done through the WordPress dashboard by navigating to the installed plugins section and deactivating the plugin. If you are unable to access the dashboard, the plugin can be disabled or removed using the file manager in your hosting account.

New Theme Installation or Update

Installing or updating a theme can also lead to the HTTP error 500. In such cases, changing to a different theme can help resolve the issue. This can be done through the WordPress dashboard by navigating to the appearance menu and selecting a different theme. Alternatively, you can edit the MySQL database via phpMyAdmin to change the theme name.

Faulty .htaccess File

A corrupted .htaccess file can also cause the HTTP error 500. By renaming the existing .htaccess file and creating a new one with the default WordPress code, you can fix this issue. This can be done through the file manager in your hosting account.

Insufficient PHP Memory Limit

If certain scripts or plugins require more memory than allocated, it can result in the HTTP error 500. To solve this, you can manually increase the PHP memory limit by editing the .htaccess file. This can be done by adding specific code lines to the file through the file manager.

Enabling Error Display

Enabling error display can help identify any other unknown errors on your website's backend. By accessing the PHP configuration section in your hosting account, you can enable error display and generate an error log file. This log file can provide valuable information to troubleshoot and fix the issue.

Restoring Backup Files of the WordPress Website

If none of the previous methods work, restoring your website to a previously functional version can be an effective solution. This can be done manually through the file manager or using a WordPress plugin. Accessing backups through your hosting account's file manager allows you to revert to a functional version of your website.

By following these steps and using the appropriate methods Based on the root cause of the HTTP error 500, you can successfully troubleshoot and fix this issue on your WordPress site. If the problem persists even after trying all the methods, it is advisable to Seek technical assistance from your hosting provider.

In conclusion, the HTTP error 500 can be a challenging issue, but with the right approach, it is possible to resolve it and ensure smooth functioning of your website.