WordPress is one of the most popular website platforms in the world. It powers millions of websites because it is flexible, easy to use, and customizable. However, like any other software, WordPress is not perfect. Sometimes, errors can occur. These errors can be confusing or even scary, especially if you’re not a technical expert.
This guide will help you understand how to fix the most common WordPress errors manually. You won’t need to rely on plugins or professional developers. Instead, you will learn how to take control and solve problems yourself. Let’s get started!
Essential Pre-Troubleshooting Steps
Before fixing any error, follow these important steps:
Backup Your WordPress Site
Before making changes, always back up your website. You can use tools like phpMyAdmin for database backup and FTP (File Transfer Protocol) for downloading your files.
Accessing Site via FTP or File Manager
When something goes wrong, you might not be able to log into your WordPress dashboard. Instead, you can use an FTP client (like FileZilla) or your web host’s File Manager to access your site’s files.
Know Key Files: .htaccess and wp-config.php
These two files are very important for troubleshooting. The .htaccess file controls how URLs are shown, and wp-config.php holds the settings for your WordPress installation.
Common WordPress Errors and Manual Fixes
Let’s look at the most common WordPress errors and how you can fix them manually.
1. White Screen of Death (WSoD)
Problem: Your site shows a blank white screen.
Causes: PHP memory issues, plugin conflicts, theme issues.
Fixes:
- Increase the memory limit by editing the wp-config.php file.
- Disable all plugins by renaming the plugins folder using FTP.
- Switch to a default theme by renaming your current theme folder.
- Enable debugging to see detailed error messages.
2. 500 Internal Server Error
Problem: A server error page appears.
Causes: Corrupted .htaccess file or PHP memory limit.
Fixes:
- Rename the .htaccess file to temporarily disable it.
- Regenerate it by updating the permalink settings once you regain dashboard access.
- Increase the memory limit in wp-config.php.
3. Error Establishing Database Connection
Problem: The site can’t connect to the database.
Causes: Wrong database settings or corrupted database.
Fixes:
- Check that your database name, username, and password are correct in wp-config.php.
- Repair the database using phpMyAdmin.
4. 403 Forbidden Error
Problem: You don’t have permission to view the page.
Causes: Plugin issues or incorrect file permissions.
Fixes:
- Disable all plugins.
- Check that your file permissions are set correctly (folders should be 755, files 644).
5. 404 Not Found Error
Problem: Page or post not found.
Causes: Broken permalinks or deleted content.
Fixes:
- Re-save your permalink settings.
- Make sure the content still exists.
6. Sidebar Below Content Error
Problem: Sidebar is misplaced.
Causes: HTML or CSS problems in theme.
Fixes:
- Check that all your HTML tags are properly closed.
- Review CSS styling, especially float and width settings.
7. White Text and Missing Buttons in Visual Editor
Problem: Visual editor doesn’t work properly.
Causes: JavaScript errors or editor configuration issues.
Fixes:
- Clear your browser cache.
- Replace the visual editor files with fresh ones.
- Disable all plugins and check again.
8. Login Page Redirecting/Refreshing
Problem: You can’t log in.
Causes: Plugin conflicts or URL mismatches.
Fixes:
- Add your site’s URL directly in the wp-config.php file.
- Disable all plugins using FTP.
9. Image Upload Issues
Problem: Images don’t upload.
Causes: File permissions or size limits.
Fixes:
- Make sure the uploads folder has the correct permissions.
- Increase upload size limits by editing the server settings.
10. “Are You Sure You Want to Do This?” Error
Problem: This error appears during an action.
Causes: Security token issues (nonces).
Fixes:
- Disable all plugins.
- Switch to a default theme.
- Upload fresh copies of WordPress core files.
11. Briefly Unavailable for Scheduled Maintenance Error
Problem: Maintenance mode message won’t go away.
Fixes:
- Delete the maintenance file from your root directory using FTP.
12. WordPress Not Sending Emails
Problem: No email notifications.
Causes: Server issues or email settings.
Fixes:
- Set up SMTP manually or use a reliable email service.
13. RSS Feed Errors
Problem: RSS feed doesn’t work.
Causes: Formatting issues or plugin conflicts.
Fixes:
- Validate your feed using an online tool.
- Deactivate plugins one by one to find the issue.
14. 502 Bad Gateway Error
Problem: Temporary server issue.
Causes: Server overload or long scripts.
Fixes:
- Reload the page.
- Contact your host if it continues.
15. 503 Service Unavailable Error
Problem: Site is down.
Causes: Server is unavailable or a faulty plugin.
Fixes:
- Disable all plugins.
- Use a default theme.
16. 504 Gateway Timeout Error
Problem: Server took too long to respond.
Fixes:
- Optimize your database.
- Ask your host to increase server resources.
17. Failed to Open Stream Error
Problem: Missing files or incorrect paths.
Fixes:
- Check file paths in your theme or plugin settings.
- Upload any missing files.
18. 429 Too Many Requests Error
Problem: Too many requests made to the server.
Fixes:
- Limit login attempts to avoid brute force attacks.
- Block suspicious bots using your site settings.
19. 413 Request Entity Too Large Error
Problem: File upload size is too big.
Fixes:
- Increase the allowed file size by editing your server settings.
20. Secure Connection Error
Problem: SSL-related issue during updates.
Fixes:
- Make sure SSL is installed correctly.
- Specify a temporary directory for updates in wp-config.php.
Proactive Measures to Prevent Future Errors
- Update Regularly: Keep WordPress core, themes, and plugins updated.
- Use Security Plugins: Tools like Wordfence can help.
- Limit Plugins: Only use trusted, necessary plugins.
- Regular Backups: Use plugins or manual methods.
- Monitor Performance: Use tools like Uptime Robot to track your site’s health.
Conclusion
Manually fixing WordPress errors might feel overwhelming, but once you understand the process, it becomes much easier. This guide has shown that most common issues—whether it’s a white screen, database error, or upload problem—can be resolved with a bit of patience and the right steps. By learning how to identify causes and apply manual fixes using FTP or File Manager, you gain more control over your website’s performance. Always remember to back up your site before making changes and keep everything updated to prevent future problems. Taking a proactive approach will not only help you avoid errors but also strengthen your confidence in managing your WordPress site. With consistent care and a little troubleshooting knowledge, you can keep your site stable, functional, and successful.