You will need
- cPanel access
Note the exact error
Write down the error code and when it started, and what changed just before.
500 or white screen
Check Errors in cPanel Metrics, then disable the last plugin or theme you changed by renaming its folder in File Manager.
403 Forbidden
Check file permissions (folders 755, files 644) and recent .htaccess changes.
404 Not Found
In WordPress, open Settings, Permalinks and click Save to rebuild links, and redirect moved pages.
Still broken
Restore a backup from before the problem, or open a ticket with the error and the time it started.
Tips
- Make one change at a time and test after each.
Terms used in this guide
- 500 Internal Server Error
- A general server error, often caused by a faulty plugin, theme or .htaccess file.
- 403 Forbidden
- The server understood the request but refuses to show the page.
- 404 Not Found
- The page you asked for does not exist at that address.
- White screen of death
- A blank white page on a WordPress site, usually caused by a PHP error.
- Error log
- A file that records errors from your website or server.
More guides in Websites & WordPress
- How to install WordPress10 min · Beginner
- How to reset your WordPress password5 min · Beginner
- How to update WordPress, themes and plugins safely15 min · Beginner
- How to upload a website with File Manager10 min · Beginner
- How to create a subdomain or add another website5 min · Intermediate
- How to change your PHP version5 min · Intermediate
Still stuck?
Our Harare team can do it with you. WhatsApp 078 377 1089 or open a support ticket.