405 Error WordPress: 8 Fixes

Troubleshooting WordPress issues can be stressful. Errors like the 405 Error WordPress cause downtime. You have to fix the problem immediately to reduce the impact. We’re no strangers to the stress of it all. 

The 405 error can halt even basic maintenance. You may be on the verge of previewing a fresh blog post one minute and face to face with the error, the next. Even updating the Ellementor  plugin could trigger the error. This error frequently arises when performing actions such as testing form.

Rest assured, there are straightforward fixes for this predicament. In this article we’ll go over 8 different ways to solve the problem. 

TL;DR:To fix the 405 error, you might need to change some core files. It’s a good idea to test on a staging site first. Use MalCare to set up a safe testing environment.

What is the 405 error in WordPress?

The 405 error is represented as an HTTP status code indicating “Method Not Allowed.” This error surfaces when a client (usually a web browser) sends a request to a server using an HTTP method, such as POST or PUT, that the server doesn’t support for the requested resource.

Let’s break it down further: When you access a website, your browser sends a request to the server asking for specific information or resources, like web pages, images, or data files. This communication happens via HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) or HTTPS (HTTP Secure).

Each of these requests is composed of several key elements:

• Method: Indicates the action to be performed, such as GET (retrieve data), POST (submit data), or DELETE (remove data).
• URL: The address where the requested resource is located.
• Optional Headers and Body Data: These may include additional information like security headers or extra instructions.

Once the server processes the request, it returns the requested resource along with a status code. If the server only supports certain HTTP methods for accessing a resource and a different method is used, a 405 error will be triggered.

When a 405 error occurs, it often comes with a hint—a list of methods that the server accepts for that URL. This helps users understand what methods can be used. For instance, if you’re testing a custom built form and receive a 405 error, the message might suggest switching to a GET method. By checking these allowed methods, you can adjust your request to communicate correctly with the server.

How to fix the 405 WordPress error?

Encountering a 405 error can indeed be frustrating, but resolving it is typically straightforward. This issue may stem from server misconfigurations, incompatible plugins, or server restrictions. In this section, we’ll guide you through the steps to fix it. 

Before troubleshooting:
1. Take a backup
2. Create a staging site

Using MalCare, you can automatically backup your entire WordPress site with ease. Additionally, setting up a staging site is straightforward with just a click through the MalCare dashboard.

1. Enabling debug mode 

If you’re dealing with a 405 Method Not Allowed error, enabling WordPress Debug mode through your .htaccess file can help identify underlying issues. Normally, these debug settings are managed within the wpconfig.php file. Here’s how to activate it:

1. Connect to your server using an FTP client like FileZilla, with your FTP credentials including username, password, and Public IP address.
2. Navigate to your WordPress installation directory, typically the root folder where the wpconfig.php file resides.
3. Open the wpconfig.php file using a text editor and insert the following lines of code:

define('WP_DEBUG', true);
define('WP_DEBUG_LOG', true);
define('WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY', false);

4. Save the changes to the file and upload it back to the server, overwriting the existing file if needed.
5. Attempt to trigger the 405 error again. For instance, if the error occurred while installing a plugin, try installing it once more.
6. Examine the debug information generated in the wpcontent/debug.log file.

By enabling WordPress debug mode, you can generate WordPress logs that pinpoint the cause of the error. 

2. Check the URL

URL inaccuracies are a frequent cause behind the “405 Method Not Allowed” error, often underestimated during troubleshooting. 

Typos and incorrect URLs can direct requests to the wrong resource, leading to this error. Such problems can also cause errors like the 400 error. 

A quick check of the URL can help ensure you’re interacting with the intended endpoint, thus speeding up the resolution process and ensuring your application’s proper functionality.

We recommend taking a close look at the URL in your browser’s address bar to verify accuracy. If you’re entering the URL manually, try copying and pasting it from a verified and reliable source to avoid mistakes. Simplifying long or complex URLs by breaking them down into shorter components can also help prevent errors. It’s important to ensure that the URL is correctly formatted,

Checking for plugin and theme incompatibilities 

Plugin and theme incompatibilities often lead to various issues. It can cause a website crash or errors like the “405 Method Not Allowed” error. These conflicts can disrupt normal site functionality. By using an FTP client, you can effectively identify and address these issues. This approach lets you access server files directly, offering a safe way to diagnose and fix problems without impacting your live site. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Use an FTP client and enter your FTP credentials (host, username, password, and port) to connect to your web server.
2. Access the public_html directory, or the root folder of your WordPress installation, where core files are located.
3. Head to the wp-content folder, which houses your plugins and themes.
4. Open the plugins folder and rename each plugin folder individually (e.g., change pluginname to pluginname_disabled) to deactivate them.
5. After renaming each plugin, check your website to see if the 405 error is resolved.
6. Once you’ve identified the problematic plugin, rename the folders of nonconflicting plugins back to their original names.
7. Go to the themes folder and temporarily rename the folder of the active theme (e.g., change activetheme to activethemedisabled). This action forces your site to use a default theme like Twenty TwentyThree.
8. Check if the error persists. If switching themes resolves it, the custom theme may be causing the issue.
9. If a specific plugin or theme is identified as the cause, look for available updates. consider alternatives that provide similar functionality without compatibility issues. Additionally, you may need to contact the developers for assistance if it was a buggy update that caused the error.

Pro tip: MalCare has a Sandbox Updates feature that can help reduce the risk of buggy updates.

10. After resolving the incompatibility or updating, rename the folders of affected plugins or themes back to their original names.

4. Review file permissions

WordPress file permissions are crucial for controlling who can read, write, or execute files on a server, affecting website access and functionality. Incorrect permissions can lead to issues like the “405 Method Not Allowed” error. Ensuring correct permissions is essential for your website’s operation.

To set them correctly, connect to your server with an FTP client like Cyberduck and go to your site’s root directory. Select the file or directory you need to adjust, rightclick, and choose “Info.” In the permissions tab, make necessary changes.

For WordPress, directories should generally be set to 755 and files to 644. This setup allows servers to access key files like .htaccess or index.php while limiting write access to prevent unauthorized changes.

5. View server configurations

This method involves checking and adjusting server configurations that could be unintentionally preventing essential HTTP methods. By examining files such as .htaccess, you can find and eliminate any restrictions, ensuring that your server properly allows the required methods.

For this explanation, we’re focusing on an Apache server and the .htaccess file. Some admins add security rules to the .htaccess file. If not done correctly, these can disrupt server functionality. In this section, we’ll talk about how to generate a new file. If you’re using Nginx, refer to its specific documentation for guidance.

1. Use an FTP client like Cyberduck to connect to your server.
2. In the root directory, locate and download the .htaccess file—it might be hidden, so ensure hidden files are visible.
3. Rename the file to something like .htaccess_old.
4. Check if the error is resolved. If it is, create a new .htaccess file via the Permalinks settings in your admin panel, reintroducing any custom rules. If renaming doesn’t fix the issue, revert to the original name and consider different solutions.

Expert advice: The .htaccess file is a core file and accidental mistakes  can crash it. If you’re not familiar with the rules, reach out to a maintenance service instead of editing it yourself.  

6. Inspect network requests:

Analyzing network requests can offer a detailed perspective on how your application communicates with the server. Although slightly technical, if you’re equipped with the right skills, this process can help you swiftly identify the root cause of issues. 

Utilize your browser’s developer tools to scrutinize network requests while replicating the error scenario. Pay attention to failed requests and delve into their specifics. Here are some key aspects to consider when using developer tools for troubleshooting:

• Verify that the appropriate HTTP method (such as GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) is used for each request.
• Identify requests with a 405 status code to isolate problematic interactions.
• Check headers for correct formatting, and ensure there are no missing or malformed elements.
• Confirm that the URL is accurate and aligns with the intended endpoint, as typographical errors can cause method restrictions.
• Analyze server responses for error messages or hints about serverside issues.
• Ensure that the ContentType and request payload meet the server’s expectations.

Clear browser cache

Clearing your cache can resolve web issues like the “405 Method Not Allowed” error. The cache stores copies of files to speed up loading times but can become outdated. So, if you’ve troubleshooted the error but it has not been fixed, the cache is possibly causing mismatches with server expectations. Clearing the cache updates these files, ensuring any recent server changes are correctly reflected, and eliminates errors from outdated instructions.

8. Check for proxy configurations

Checking for proxy configurations involves reviewing and verifying the settings of any A proxy server acts as an intermediary between a client and a server, processing client requests and forwarding them to the appropriate destination. In the case of a reverse proxy, it specifically channels requests from clients to backend services to enhance performance, security, and load balancing. However, improper configuration of a reverse proxy can lead to errors like the “405 Method Not Allowed.”

To avoid these errors, it’s crucial that the reverse proxy accurately forwards requests to the backend services without altering essential components, such as HTTP methods. Misconfigurations might lead to request modifications or failures in relaying them correctly, causing server rejections. For instance, if POST requests aren’t properly directed, they can be rejected, resulting in a 405 error. Proper setup includes passing all required headers, preserving HTTP method integrity, and routing requests to the correct exndpoints, ensuring seamless interaction between client and server.

How to prevent 405 errors?

Troubleshooting the “405 Method Not Allowed” error can be incredibly timeconsuming and stressful, making it crucial to focus on prevention rather than reaction. Taking a proactive approach to your website’s management can save you from the headache of dealing with unexpected errors. Regular maintenance, choosing dependable tools, and ongoing monitoring are vital practices that can greatly enhance your website’s stability and reliability. Here are essential strategies to help you avoid these frustrating errors and keep your site running smoothly:

• Regularly back up your data to ensure you can quickly recover your website if necessary.
• Always update your software to defend against vulnerabilities and take advantage of new features and fixes.
• Opt for highquality, wellsupported extensions to minimize compatibility and performance problems.
• Use a staging environment to test changes, ensuring issues are caught before affecting users.
• Proactively address speed and performance challenges to maintain a seamless user experience.
• Utilize monitoring tools to oversee uptime, loading speeds, and security threats, enabling early detection of potential issues.
• Limit your use of plugins to only those that are essential, reducing complexity and compatibility concerns.
• Periodically review custom code to identify and fix potential problems, ensuring all site components function smoothly.
• Enable logging to swiftly address problems by providing comprehensive records for troubleshooting.
• Enhance data protection with HTTPS, strong passwords, and security plugins to prevent errors and breaches.
• Validate user inputs to avoid mistakes from improper or harmful data processing.
• Evaluate user behavior to pinpoint potential problem areas and foresee issues.

Final thoughts

Addressing the “405 Method Not Allowed” error frequently requires tweaking your website’s core settings, which can have implications for its overall stability and functionality. Making such changes directly on your live site can be risky, potentially leading to unintended disruptions for users. Therefore, it’s important to perform these adjustments in a controlled and secure setting. A staging site serves this purpose effectively, replicating your live environment while allowing you to conduct tests without impacting actual user interactions.

MalCare offers a dependable solution for creating such a staging environment. By using this platform, you can safely experiment with and refine your fixes before applying them to your live site. This approach minimizes the risk of errors and ensures that the solutions you implement genuinely enhance your site’s performance. Taking these preventive measures helps maintain your site’s integrity, allowing you to resolve issues calmly and methodically, without adverse side effects on user experience.

FAQs

How to fix the 405 Method Not Allowed Error on your WordPress site?  

Begin by deactivating plugins or themes with potential conflicts using an FTP client. Check and modify the .htaccess file for HTTP method restrictions. Ensure all WordPress components are up-to-date. Use developer tools to review network requests for mismatches.

How do I fix error code 405?  

Verify the URL and HTTP method, ensuring they are correct. Check server settings, particularly .htaccess, to allow the method. Update all themes and plugins, resolving conflicts by temporarily disabling them as needed.

How to fix 400 error in WordPress?  

Clear your browser’s cache and cookies, ensuring a correct URL entry. Examine and fix any problematic custom scripts or plugins. If the error persists, deactivate plugins or themes one at a time to pinpoint the cause.

How do I fix redirect error in WordPress?  

Check WordPress and site URL settings for consistency. Review or temporarily remove the .htaccess file to spot redirect rule issues. Clear browser cookies/cache and disable any redirect-related plugins to find conflicts.

What is 405 in error?  

The 405 error, “Method Not Allowed,” occurs when the HTTP method used (e.g., GET or POST) isn’t permitted for the requested resource. This requires checking server settings or API usage for method allowances.