Troubleshooting a Critical Error on Your WordPress Website

Fixing a critical error in WordPress can be a bit tricky, as there can be various reasons for such errors, and the specific steps to resolve them can vary.

However, here’s a general troubleshooting guide you can follow:

What is the critical error in WordPress?

The “There has been a critical error on your website” message in WordPress means there’s a fatal PHP error on your site during code execution. This happens when a PHP script stops running and is unable to complete its process.

This error essentially tells you that WordPress has either failed to load core files or some other additional plugin or theme functionality, which can be attributed to resource limitations, code-related errors, or even malware.

Why does the critical error happen on a website?

The reasons for this issue can usually be traced back to one of the following problems:

• Issues in the WordPress Core Files: If any of your WordPress core files have become corrupted or are missing you will likely receive critical errors. These messages can also occur if you have unsuccessfully updated your website or tampered with any core files.
• Broken Theme Files or Plugin Malfunction: In some cases, corrupted WordPress themes or plugin files can also result in website errors. Many of the best WordPress plugins and themes are thoroughly tested and are not as likely to result in errors. But plugin conflicts and custom code can certainly result in critical error messages.
• Syntax Errors: Custom code can inadvertently lead to issues that break normal PHP code execution, especially if they contain accidental syntax errors or paths with unsafe characters. Check for any recent modifications or changes in your website environment to locate possible syntax errors in your code.
• Malware Infections: Some malware infections can lead to critical errors in WordPress. You’ll want to scan your website for malware and clean up any malicious code that’s present in the environment.
• PHP Memory Limits: Website owners often encounter critical errors when trying to upload media or performing tasks, which can indicate that PHP has reached its predefined limits while executing a specific script.
• Outdated PHP Version: If your site is using a PHP version lower than 7.4, you’ll likely be on the receiving end of critical website errors. And if you’re using PHP 5.x, you’ll absolutely want to upgrade as soon as possible to avoid conflicts.
• Incompatible PHP Version: Some websites rely on the usage of old, legacy, or sometimes custom code that was designed using an older version of PHP. Upgrading the PHP to a more recent (and safer) version can sometimes cause older websites to break.

How to Fix A Critical Error On Your WordPress Website

Fixing a critical error on your WordPress website involves a systematic approach to identify and resolve the specific issue causing the problem. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Access Error Logs:
   • Check your website’s error logs for specific error messages. This information can provide insights into the root cause of the critical error. You can find logs in your hosting control panel or access them via FTP.
2. Enable WordPress Debugging:
   • Enable debugging in WordPress by editing the wp-config.php file. Set the WP_DEBUG constant to true. This may display error messages on your site, helping you identify the issue.

• Check the wp-content/debug.log file for detailed error messages.

Deactivate Themes and Plugins:

• If possible, access the WordPress admin dashboard or use FTP to deactivate all plugins and switch to a default theme (like Twenty Twenty-One). This helps determine if the issue is related to a theme or plugin.

Increase Memory Limit:

• If the critical error is due to insufficient memory, you can try increasing the PHP memory limit. Edit the wp-config.php file and add the following line:

Adjust the memory limit value based on your server’s capabilities.

Check PHP Version:

• Ensure that your WordPress site is running on a PHP version compatible with your plugins and themes. Upgrade or ask your hosting provider to update if necessary.

Reinstall WordPress Core Files:

• Reinstalling WordPress core files can fix corrupted files. You can do this by downloading the latest WordPress version and replacing the existing core files via FTP, excluding the wp-content folder.

Restore from Backup:

• If you have a recent backup, consider restoring your website to a point before the critical error occurred. This can help if the issue is related to recent changes or updates.

Contact Hosting Support:

• If you’re unable to resolve the critical error, contact your hosting provider’s support. They may assist in identifying and fixing server-related issues.

Consult Plugin or Theme Support:

• Reach out to the support forums or contact the developers of the specific plugin or theme causing the critical error. They can provide guidance or updates to address compatibility issues.

Seek Professional Help:

• If you’re not comfortable making changes or diagnosing the issue, consider hiring a professional WordPress developer or seeking help from forums like WordPress.org.

Conclusion

Encountering a critical error on your WordPress website can be stressful, but with a systematic approach to troubleshooting, you can identify and resolve the issue. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively diagnose the problem and get your website back on track. Remember to regularly update plugins, themes, and WordPress core files to minimize the risk of critical errors in the future. If you’re unsure about any step, it’s always a good idea to seek professional assistance to ensure the stability and security of your WordPress site.