1. PrettyWP
  2. PrettyWP Help Center
  3. Tutorials
  4. Resolving the WordPress "Internal Server Error"

Resolving the WordPress "Internal Server Error"


The "Internal Server Error" is a generic error message that appears when something goes wrong with your server but doesn't provide specific details. Follow these steps to troubleshoot and resolve this error:

  1. Check for a plugin or theme conflicts: Deactivate all your plugins and switch to a default WordPress theme (like Twenty Twenty-One). If the error disappears, reactivate each plugin and switch themes individually to identify the one causing the issue. Replace or update the problematic plugin or theme.

  2. Increase PHP memory limit: Insufficient PHP memory can trigger internal server errors. Add the following line to your wp-config.php file:  define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '128M');  Contact your hosting provider to increase the server memory limit if the error persists.

  3. Check for corrupt .htaccess file: Rename your .htaccess file (found in the root directory of your WordPress installation) to something like ".htaccess_old." This step disables the file temporarily. Then, refresh your website to see if the error disappears. If it does, go to "Settings" > "Permalinks" in your admin dashboard and click "Save Changes" to generate a new .htaccess file.

  4. Re-upload core WordPress files: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, try uploading a fresh copy of the WordPress core files. Download the latest version from WordPress.org, extract and upload the files to your server, overwriting the existing files. Take a backup before proceeding.

  5. Contact your hosting provider: If the error persists after trying all the steps above, contact your hosting provider's support team. They can investigate and help resolve any server-related issues that might be causing the internal server error.

    Remember, creating a backup of your website before making any significant changes is always a good practice.

Are you still in need of assistance? If so, we highly recommend reaching out to our support team.

    Previous Troubleshooting White Screen of Death
    Next How to Fix WordPress Syntax Error