How to fix “500 Internal Server Error”. Free immediate support

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How to fix “500 Internal Server Error”. Free immediate support






How to Fix a 500 Internal Server Error: Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

A 500 Internal Server Error is a server-side issue that can be caused by corrupted files, PHP memory limitations, or conflicts with plugins or themes. Learn how to resolve it by refreshing your page, clearing your browser cache, checking your .htaccess file, or increasing the PHP memory limit. For WordPress users, deactivating plugins or switching themes can also help. If the problem persists, review error logs or consult your hosting provider for assistance.

Use our free chatbot to get step-by-step help with technical issues.

Key Takeaways

  • A 500 Internal Server Error is a general server-side error, which can have multiple root causes including corrupted files, PHP memory issues, or plugin/theme conflicts.
  • The error can be resolved using common troubleshooting steps like clearing your cache, checking the .htaccess file, or increasing the PHP memory limit.
  • For WordPress, deactivating plugins and themes or using debugging tools is essential.
  • If troubleshooting doesn’t work, contacting your web hosting provider is the final step.
  • Follow the structured guide below to systematically resolve the issue.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a 500 Internal Server Error

Step 1: Refresh or Reload the Web Page

  • Why It Works: Temporary glitches on the server can sometimes trigger 500 errors. Simply refreshing the page can often solve this issue.
  • How to Do It: Press Ctrl + R (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + R (Mac) to refresh. If the error persists, move to the next step.

Step 2: Clear Your Browser Cache

  • Why It’s Important: Outdated files stored in your browser’s cache can conflict with the server’s latest updates.

  • How to Clear Cache in Major Browsers:

    1. Open your browser, press Ctrl + Shift + Delete (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + Backspace (Mac).
    2. Clear “Cached images and files” and “Cookies.”

  • Check browser-specific instructions for clearing the cache here.

Pro Tip: For quicker testing, open a private/incognito browser window and reload your website.

Step 3: Check for Plugin or Theme Issues (WordPress)

  • Why Plugins or Themes Cause Issues: WordPress-related 500 errors often stem from bugs in plugins or poorly coded themes.
  • How to Troubleshoot:
    1. Deactivate all plugins via your WordPress Dashboard.
    2. Reactivate plugins one-by-one to identify the culprit. If the site crashes again, you’ve found the conflicting plugin.
    3. Switch to the default WordPress theme (e.g., Twenty Twenty-three).

📌 Recommended Tool: Consider using the MiniTool ShadowMaker to back up your site before making changes.

Step 4: Review Permission Errors

  • What to Check: File and folder permissions for your website must be correctly configured.

  • File/Folders Best Practices:

    • Files Permissions: Set to 644.
    • Folders Permissions: Set to 755.

  • Use an FTP client like FileZilla to manually update these permissions.

💡 Tip: Increase your server security by storing sensitive data in encrypted folders with EaseUS LockMyFile.

Step 5: Increase PHP Memory Limit

  • Low PHP Memory Causes Crashes: Hosting services often allocate very little memory to processes, leading to 500 errors.
  • How to Fix It:
    1. Use an FTP client to locate the wp-config.php file in your WordPress directory.
    2. Add the following line of code: 
      define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '256M');
    3. Save the file and refresh your website.

If you’re seeing memory-intensive operations like uploading large files fail, this step is mandatory. Pro Solution: Tools such as Wondershare Recoverit Data Recovery can restore corrupted files due to failed uploads.

Step 6: Check or Reset the .htaccess File

  • Why It Helps: A corrupt .htaccess file can prevent your website from functioning correctly.
  • Steps to Identify the Issue:
    1. Rename your current .htaccess file to something like .htaccess.old.
    2. Try reloading your site.
    3. If it works, generate a new .htaccess file via WordPress by navigating to Settings > Permalinks, then clicking “Save Changes.”

Step 7: Monitor Error Logs

  • Why Logs Are Useful: Error logs show specific reasons for server failures.
  • How to Enable Logs:
    • Add the following to your wp-config.php file to enable debugging: 
      define('WP_DEBUG', true);  
define('WP_DEBUG_LOG', true);
    • Look for the log file in /wp-content/debug.log.

🔧 Simplify debugging with the WP Debugging plugin.

Step 8: Contact Your Hosting Provider

  • Why Involve Hosting? If all steps above fail, the issue likely lies with your hosting provider.
  • What Info to Provide:
    • Share logs from your server.
    • Mention recent changes, like core updates.

Affiliate Resources:

  • Hosting downtime? Safeguard your online privacy or browse securely using NordVPN.

Advanced Tips from an Expert

Having managed numerous WordPress sites over the years, here are some key insights:

  1. Always Backup Before You Tinker! Tools like MiniTool ShadowMaker make it easier to restore your site if troubleshooting goes wrong.
  2. Avoid Too Many Heavy Plugins: Plugins like caching tools are helpful but can cause issues if misconfigured. Stick to reliable ones like WPRocket or LiteSpeed Cache.
  3. Regular Maintenance: Schedule monthly audits to review server logs, PHP settings, and update obsolete resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What causes a 500 Internal Server Error in WordPress?

  • Issues with plugins, themes, .htaccess file, PHP memory, or server settings are the most common causes.

2. Will clearing my browser cache delete saved passwords?

  • No, clearing just “cached images and files” doesn’t erase passwords. However, you can use NordPass to securely store your passwords.

3. Can I fix a 500 error without FTP access?

  • Yes, you can access critical settings through cPanel or contact your hosting provider for assistance.

4. Is there a risk of losing data when fixing this error?

  • If you’re editing live files, there’s a chance of accidental deletion. Always back up your site with reliable tools like EaseUS OS2Go.

5. How long does it take to resolve this error?

  • Simple issues (like plugin conflicts) can be fixed in under 15 minutes. Complex cases involving hosting provider intervention could take up to 24–48 hours.

This structured guide walks you through common and actionable steps to fix 500 errors efficiently. Bookmark this for future reference!

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