How To Fix “There Has Been A Critical Error On This Website”

How To Fix “There Has Been A Critical Error On This Website”

Picture this: you’re excited to update your WordPress site. You log in and—bam!—a message appears: “There is a critical error on this site.” Alarm bells ring. What went wrong? Why now?

Every minute your site is down because of a WordPress error, feels like a lifetime. Your visitors can’t see your content, and you might be losing business. It’s frustrating not knowing where to start or what to do next.

Take a deep breath. You’re not alone. Most WordPress problems, including this one, have fixes that you can try yourself. With a bit of guidance, your site can be back on track soon. We’ll walk you through simple steps to solve this error and get things back to normal.

TL;DR: A staging site is crucial for safe troubleshooting. It lets you find and fix issues like plugin conflicts without affecting your live site. Protect your main site by testing changes in a secure environment first.

What does it mean to see “there has been a critical error on this website”?

When you see “there has been a critical error” on your WordPress site, don’t panic. This message shows up when something isn’t right, but you can fix it! WordPress can be sensitive to changes in plugins, themes, and updates. If two plugins don’t get along or an update clashes with your theme, this error might happen. 

Here’s what might cause it:

• PHP errors: Sometimes, the code in plugins or themes isn’t right. If it’s not compatible or has mistakes, it can mess up your site.
• Memory limits: Your host gives you a certain amount of memory. If your site needs more than that, it might crash. This can happen if you have many plugins or lots of visitors.
• Plugin conflicts: When failed plugin updates can cause functionality issues. Sometimes, when plugins try to do the same thing or don’t work well together.
• Theme issues: Themes can also have bugs or not work with your current setup. An old or poorly designed theme can cause problems.
• Corrupted files: If your WordPress files break during updates or transfers, your site might not work right.

How to fix the “there has been a critical error on this website” error?

Encountering the “there has been a critical error” message on your WordPress site may initially seem intimidating. However, rest assured that resolving this issue is often more straightforward than it appears.

1. Restore your site

When you encounter a WordPress critical error, the first step is to restore your site from a backup. Doing this quickly can return your site to its last stable version, minimizing downtime and keeping your content safe. This allows you to focus on fixing the underlying problem without disrupting your visitors’ experience.

To successfully restore your site, you need reliable backups. If your backups are only available through the WordPress dashboard, this could be a problem if the dashboard is down. Manual backups might not offer a complete restore. This is why using a backup tool like MalCare is a wise choice. MalCare offers an external dashboard, allowing you to access it even if your admin panel isn’t working. It also has an emergency connector to help you reconnect if your site goes down.

Expert insight: We evaluated top backup plugins based on factors like resource use, speed, automation, and restore reliability. Our top pick was MalCare because of its standout features:
– Reliable, automatic daily backups
– Quick and easy site restoration
– Secure offsite storage
– User-friendly interface
– Seamless WordPress integration

2. Enable debugging

When your WordPress site shows the “there has been a critical error” message, it can feel like finding a needle in a haystack to figure out the cause. Enabling WordPress debugging is a powerful tool that can help. Debugging lets you see WordPress logs that offer valuable clues about the problem. By turning it on, you can discover whether the error comes from a troublesome plugin, a theme conflict, or another source. 

1. Use your website hosting panel or an FTP client to access your site files.
2. Find the wp-config.php file in the root folder of your WordPress installation.
3. Download a copy of wp-config.php to your computer for backup safety.
4. Open the wp-config.php file with a text editor like Notepad or TextEdit.
5. Locate the line that says define(‘WP_DEBUG’, false);.
6. Change false to true, so it reads: define(‘WP_DEBUG’, true);.
7. Save your changes to the wp-config.php file.
8. Upload the modified wp-config.php file back to your server.
9. Refresh your WordPress site to see any error messages or logs generated.
10. Once finished troubleshooting, remember to revert WP_DEBUG back to false.

3. Increase PHP memory limit

At times, the “there has been a critical error” message pops up because your site doesn’t have enough memory from the server to work properly. This often happens when your site is using complex plugins or handling demanding tasks. By increasing the PHP memory limit, you give your site the extra space it needs to run smoothly and avoid these errors. Adjusting the memory limit can make a big difference in performance and reliability. Here’s a guide on how to increase your PHP memory limit for a more stable and efficient site.

1. Access your site files via your hosting panel or an FTP client.
2. Locate the wp-config.php file in your WordPress root directory.
3. Make a backup copy of wp-config.php before proceeding.
4. Open the wp-config.php file using a text editor like Notepad or TextEdit.
5. Add the following line of code before the line that says That’s all, stop editing!: 

define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '256M');

6. Save your changes and upload the modified wp-config.php back to your server.
7. Check your site to see if the error persists.

4. Identify plugin conflicts

Plugins are essential for enhancing the functionality of your WordPress site, but sometimes they can be the culprit behind the “there has been a critical error” message. When plugins conflict, they can cause code conflicts that disrupt your site’s normal performance. Recognizing and resolving these conflicts is crucial for getting your site back on track.

1. Use your admin credentials to access the WordPress admin panel of your staging site.
2. On the left sidebar, click Plugins to view all installed plugins.
3. Select all plugins by checking the box at the top of the list.
4. In the Bulk Actions dropdown menu, choose Deactivate, then click Apply. This will disable all plugins.
5. Reactivate each plugin individually by clicking Activate under its name.
6. After enabling each plugin, check your site to see if the critical error appears.
7. If the error returns with a specific plugin, you’ve likely found the source of the conflict.

After identifying the problematic plugin, investigate what caused the conflict. If it stems from a recent update, you can roll back to the previous version and wait for a patch from the developers. If it hasn’t been updated in a while, safely update the plugin. For plugins that are significantly outdated, consider finding a newer alternative that receives regular maintenance from the developers. Whichever solution you choose, be sure to test it on a staging site first before applying it to your live site.

Note: If you can’t access the admin panel, use an FTP client or cPanel to access your site files. Navigate to the wp-content/plugins/ directory and change the name of each plugin’s folder to deactivate them. Rename the folders back one by one to reactivate them, checking for the critical error after each reactivation.

5. Resolving theme conflicts

Themes shape the appearance of your WordPress site, but they can sometimes cause the “there has been a critical error” message. Outdated code within a theme or compatibility issues from a theme update can cause disruptions.

To begin, set up a test site and ensure you have a backup. Then, switch to a default theme, like Twenty Twenty-Four. Test your site to see if the critical error is gone. If the site runs smoothly, the original theme is likely the source of the problem.

Investigate what may have caused the issue. Was there a recent theme update? You might consider rolling it back. Could it be a conflict that needs you to rollback the theme update. Perhaps the theme is outdated. Updating your theme to its latest version can often resolve bugs and improve compatibility. If updating doesn’t solve the problem, reach out to the theme’s support team. Provide a detailed description of the issue and any error messages for targeted assistance. Should the problem persist or support be unavailable, consider switching to a different theme. Select one that is regularly maintained, meets your site’s needs, and has positive user feedback for better performance and compatibility.

6. Modify file permissions

Understanding file permissions is key to solving many WordPress errors, including the “there has been a critical error” message. File permissions determine who can read, write, or execute files on your WordPress site. They are like security settings that control access to different parts of your website, much like the locks on doors in your home. Proper file permissions ensure that only the right people or processes can modify your site’s files, keeping your site secure and functional.

Incorrect file permissions can lead to errors by blocking access to necessary files or letting unauthorized changes occur. This can disrupt your site’s operation and trigger errors. By setting the correct file permissions, you ensure that your WordPress site runs smoothly, with all components having the right level of access. This simple adjustment can help resolve critical errors and improve your site’s overall security and stability.

Here’s how to check and change permissions using Cyberduck:

1. Open Cyberduck and connect to your server with your FTP details.
2. Find the root directory of your WordPress site.
3. Right-click on the file or folder you need to check.
4. Select Get Info from the menu.
5. In the Permissions section, see what the current settings are.
6. Change to 644 for files or 755 for folders in the Octal or Mode field.
7. Click Apply Changes or Save to update the permissions.
8. Revisit your WordPress site to check if the error has been fixed.

7. Get help from your web host

If you’re still seeing the “there has been a critical error” message after trying everything, it might be time to turn to your hosting provider for help. They have the advanced tools and resources to uncover server-related issues.

Before you contact them, gather relevant information like error messages, logs, and any troubleshooting steps you’ve taken. Reach out using your host’s support channels—whether through chat, email, or phone. Clearly describe the problem and supply your collected details. Your host can investigate server logs and settings that might be causing the error and often catch things you might not have noticed.

Follow their guidance accurately to fix the issue. They might even suggest upgrading your plan as a solution. With their technical support, you can often fix issues that wouldn’t budge with just basic troubleshooting.

How to prevent the “there has been a critical error”?

To avoid the “there has been a critical error” message on your WordPress site, focus on proactive management and regular upkeep. Here are steps to help prevent this issue:

• Use a dependable backup plugin to safeguard your site. With tools like MalCare, set automatic backups to restore your site quickly if needed.
• Regularly update your WordPress core, plugins, and themes. These updates often fix bugs and enhance security, reducing the chance of errors.
• Select plugins and themes from reputable sources. Check user reviews and update histories to ensure they are reliable and well-maintained.
• UpdateLens evaluates the risk level of updates. MalCare users might have access to it, depending on their plan. It helps you decide if an update is safe.
• Avoid cluttering your site with too many plugins. Only keep those essential to your site’s functionality to reduce potential conflicts.
• Test changes, updates, and new installations on a staging site before going live. This practice helps identify issues without impacting the live site.
• Ensure your site has ample memory by setting a higher PHP memory limit to support smooth operation.
• Regularly check for errors, loading speed, and performance. Use monitoring tools like Airlift and MalCare to detect problems early.
• Choose a hosting provider with a secure, robust server setup. Good hosting can prevent server-related complications.
• Perform routine maintenance to keep your site efficient. This includes removing unnecessary files, checking links, and optimizing databases.

Final thoughts

Encountering the “there has been a critical error” message on your WordPress site can be intimidating. Despite the severity its name suggests, this error can often be resolved. By following a methodical approach to troubleshooting, you can identify the cause and restore your website to normal operation. The key is taking each step with care and attention, ensuring no stone is left unturned.

Implementing regular backups and having a recovery plan in place, such as using MalCare, provides a safety net in case of any mishaps. Keeping your WordPress core, plugins, and themes updated helps prevent many issues before they arise. Choosing well-reviewed plugins and a reputable hosting provider also lays a strong foundation for a stable WordPress site. Using the right mix of tools and practices helps maintain the health of your site and minimizes the risk of errors.

FAQs

How do I fix a critical error in WordPress?

To fix a critical error in WordPress, start by identifying the source of the problem. Check for issues with plugins or themes by deactivating them one by one. You can also enable debugging to get detailed error messages. If memory is the issue, increase the PHP memory limit. Restoring a backup using a reliable tool like MalCare can also revert your site to a stable state. If these steps don’t help, consider reaching out to your hosting provider for further assistance.

How to remove critical error?

Removing a critical error involves diagnosing the underlying issue. Begin by troubleshooting potential sources such as plugin conflicts, theme issues, or PHP memory limits. Use a staging site to test and rectify these issues without affecting the live site. Once identified, resolve the problem by updating, replacing, or reconfiguring the elements causing the error. Restoring from a backup can also be a quick fix to regain stability while you address the root cause.

How to remove the error in WordPress?

To remove the error in WordPress, first pinpoint the problem through debugging or error logs. Common causes include plugin or theme conflicts, outdated elements, or server misconfigurations. Deactivate and reactivate plugins or switch to a default theme to see if the issue resolves. Ensure your WordPress version and all components are up to date. If errors persist, consult your hosting provider for insights into server-side issues.

How do I fix errors in WordPress?

Fixing errors in WordPress requires a systematic approach. Start by identifying whether the issue stems from plugins, themes, or server settings. Use debugging tools to gain more information about the error. Resolve conflicts by updating or replacing problematic plugins or themes. Increase PHP memory if needed, and consult your hosting provider for server-related problems. Regular maintenance and backups can prevent future errors.