To fix a critical error on a WordPress website, begin by enabling debug mode and checking your error logs for specific error messages. Next, try disabling plugins and switching to a default theme to identify if either are the source of the issue. If those steps don't resolve the problem, consider restoring from a backup, updating PHP, or increasing the PHP memory limit.
Detailed Troubleshooting Steps:
1.) Enable Debug Mode:
Access your wp-config.php file via FTP or your hosting control panel.
Add or modify these lines:
define( 'WP_DEBUG', true );
define( 'WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY', false );
define( 'WP_DEBUG_LOG', true );
This will display errors on the front-end and log them to wp-content/debug.log.
2.) Check Error Logs:
Review the wp-content/debug.log file (if you enabled debug mode) for detailed error messages.
If you don't have debug mode enabled, check your hosting provider's error logs.
3.) Disabling Plugins and Themes:
Temporarily disable all plugins.
Switch to a default WordPress theme (e.g., Twenty Twenty-Three).
Re-enable plugins one by one, checking your site after each activation, to pinpoint the problematic plugin.
4.) Restoring from Backup:
If you have a recent backup, restore your site to the last known working version.
5.) Updating PHP and Increasing Memory Limit:
If your PHP version is outdated, consider upgrading to the latest compatible version.
If your site runs out of memory, increase the PHP memory limit in your wp-config.php file or through your hosting control panel.
6.) Checking .htaccess File:
A corrupted or improperly edited .htaccess file can also cause critical errors.
If you've recently made changes to this file, revert them or check for any errors.
7.)Contacting Your Hosting Provider:
If you're unable to resolve the issue yourself, reach out to your hosting provider for assistance. If you are a hosting client, feel free to send in a support ticket and we'll take care of it for you :)
