The “White Screen of Death” (WSOD) is a common error in WordPress that occurs when the website fails to load and a white screen is displayed instead. This error can be caused by a variety of issues, including:
- Plugin conflict: A poorly coded plugin or a conflict between plugins can cause the WSOD. To resolve this issue, try disabling plugins one by one to determine which plugin is causing the problem.
- Insufficient memory: If the server does not have enough memory to handle the website’s processes, it can cause the WSOD. Increasing the memory limit in the wp-config.php file can help resolve this issue.
- Syntax error: A syntax error in the website’s code can cause the WSOD. Check the error logs for any syntax errors and correct them as needed.
- Corrupted core files: In some cases, a corrupted WordPress core file can cause the WSOD. Reinstalling a fresh copy of WordPress can help resolve this issue.
- Exhausted PHP memory limit: If the PHP memory limit is too low, it can cause the WSOD. Increasing the PHP memory limit in the wp-config.php file can help resolve this issue.
Steps to fix WordPress White Page Error
Here are some steps to fix the “White Screen of Death” (WSOD) error in WordPress:
- Disable plugins: The first step is to disable plugins one by one to determine if a plugin conflict is causing the WSOD. To disable plugins, access your website via FTP and rename the plugins folder to something like “plugins_old.”
- Increase memory limit: Insufficient memory can cause the WSOD. Increase the memory limit in the wp-config.php file by adding the following code: define( ‘WP_MEMORY_LIMIT’, ‘256M’ );
- Check for syntax errors: Syntax errors can cause the WSOD. Check the error logs for any syntax errors and correct them as needed.
- Reinstall core files: Corrupted core files can cause the WSOD. Reinstalling a fresh copy of WordPress can help resolve this issue.
- Increase PHP memory limit: If the PHP memory limit is too low, it can cause the WSOD. Increasing the PHP memory limit in the wp-config.php file can help resolve this issue.
- Contact hosting support: If the above steps do not resolve the WSOD, it may be an issue with the server. Contact your hosting support for assistance.
What causes the WordPress white screen of death?
The “White Screen of Death” (WSOD) in WordPress is caused by a variety of issues, including:
- Plugin conflict: A poorly coded plugin or a conflict between plugins can cause the WSOD.
- Insufficient memory: If the server does not have enough memory to handle the website’s processes, it can cause the WSOD.
- Syntax error: A syntax error in the website’s code can cause the WSOD.
- Corrupted core files: In some cases, a corrupted WordPress core file can cause the WSOD.
- Exhausted PHP memory limit: If the PHP memory limit is too low, it can cause the WSOD.
- Other server-side issues: The WSOD can also be caused by issues with the server, such as a problem with the PHP version or configuration, or an issue with the server’s resources.
What if nothing fixes the WordPress white screen of death?
If none of the common fixes for the “White Screen of Death” (WSOD) in WordPress have worked, here are some additional steps to try:
- Create a backup: Before making any changes to your website, it is important to create a backup. This will allow you to restore your website if anything goes wrong.
- Check for theme compatibility: If you recently changed your theme, it may be causing the WSOD. Try switching to a default WordPress theme, such as Twenty Twenty-One, to see if the issue is resolved.
- Check for server-side issues: If the issue is not related to your website’s code, it may be an issue with your server. Contact your hosting support for assistance.
- Hire a professional: If you are not familiar with the technical aspects of WordPress and have exhausted all other options, it may be time to hire a professional developer or support team for assistance.
Remember to always create a backup of your website before making any changes, as this can prevent potential data loss and save time in resolving the issue.
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