WordPress 413 Request Entity Too Large: Easy Fix

Stumbling upon errors in your WordPress site can feel like navigating a maze without a map. It’s scary. It’s disruptive to your workflow. It leaves you questioning why this is happening now. 

One such error is the “413 Request Entity Too Large” error. It appears when you’re attempting to upload substantial files. This could be files such as high-definition images or heavy plugin folders. Your site simply isn’t equipped to process files of that magnitude and you need to increase its capabilities in the backend. 

It may sound technical but this article will walk you through various methods to increase upload limits or work around them. Additionally, we’ll explain why this error occurs and offer preventative measures so you can safeguard your site against future disruptions.

TL;DR: To fix the “WordPress 413 request entity too large” error, add code to your site’s core files. These modifications come at the risk of losing your site. We recommend that you start by taking a back up with MalCare. 

What does the “413 Request Entity Too Large” error mean?

The “WordPress 413 Request Entity Too Large” error is an HTTP status code that indicates “Payload Too Large.” Payload refers to any data you attempt to send to the server, such as a file you want to upload. When trying to upload a sizeable file like a video or a high quality image, you might encounter this error. It arises because your file—essentially, your payload—exceeds the size limitations configured on the server.

Web hosting providers usually impose file upload limits to manage resources effectively and maintain performance. These limitations are crucial in preventing the server from being overwhelmed by very large files. The file size limit can vary among hosts, but it typically ranges from 2MB to 15MB. For instance, with Cloudways, the upload limit is generally around 10MB. This enables file uploads up to that size without complications. However, if there is a necessity to upload larger files, you have the option to adjust the server settings to increase this limit.

How to fix the “413 request entity too large” error?

Now that we understand that this error arises from server upload limits, you can modify the server settings if you need to upload larger files. In the upcoming section, we’ll provide a safe guide on how to implement these changes.

Manually upload the file via FTP

If you encounter the upload limit error but prefer not to alter server settings, there’s an alternative: upload your file directly to the wp-content folder using FTP. This approach allows you to bypass the standard WordPress upload limits altogether.

1. Connect to your server: Use your FTP credentials, including your username, password, IP address, and port number, to connect to the server.

2. Navigate to the Uploads folder: In the `public_html` directory, go to `wp-content/uploads`. This is the location where all media files are stored.

3. Upload your file: Right-click within the folder, select ‘Upload,’ and choose the file you wish to upload. Keep in mind that the upload process may take some time, depending on the file size.

Expert Advice: WordPress organizes media files by year and month to help with easier management. For instance, if you’re uploading in October 2023, place your file in the `wp-content/uploads/2023/10/` folder. If these directories don’t exist, you can create them manually for better organization.

Increasing the upload limit

If you’re encountering the “WordPress 413 request entity too large” error due to upload restrictions, increasing the upload size can be an effective solution. Here are several methods to achieve this, starting with the simplest:

Use a WordPress plugin

For those new to WordPress or preferring to avoid coding, using a plugin is a straightforward way to increase the upload limit. As an example, we explored WP Maximum Upload File Size:

1. Install and activate the plugin from the WordPress repository.

2. Navigate to Plugins and click on Settings under the plugin.
3. Enter your desired upload limit and click Save Changes.

Edit the .htaccess file

If you’re comfortable editing files, adjusting the .htaccess file can effectively increase limits. The .htaccess file is a configuration file used by servers to manage rules such as redirects, security settings, and file size limits.

1. Connect to your server using an FTP client.
2. Locate the .htaccess file in your root directory (often called public_html). You may need to reveal hidden files via the View tab.
3. Add the following lines:

php_value upload_max_filesize 64M
php_value post_max_size 64M
php_value max_execution_time 300
php_value max_input_time 300

These settings increase the maximum file size and help prevent uploads from timing out.

Modify the functions.php file

If you have a child theme, adjusting the functions.php file allows you to change upload limits directly from your theme’s settings.

Expert advice: Usually, you can edit this file from the admin panel. But, security plugins like MalCare disable file editing for the sake of security. It reduces the impact a hacker can have if they access your dashboard. 

1. Connect to your server using an FTP client.
2. Navigate to the folder for the active theme.
3. In the theme folder, locate the functions.php file and add the following code:

@ini_set('upload_max_size', '64M');
@ini_set('post_max_size', '64M');
@ini_set('max_execution_time', '300');

This will increase the upload limit for your site.

If these approaches don’t resolve the issue, contact your hosting provider. They can often modify server-level settings that are beyond your reach. They can adjust the upload limit according to your requirements or provide further assistance.

How to prevent the “413 Request Entity Too Large” error?

Maintaining your WordPress site involves avoiding errors like the “413 request entity too large” error, it’s important to implement preventative strategies. By optimizing file uploads and managing server resources effectively, you can significantly lower the odds of facing this error. Here’s how you can achieve that:

• Set appropriate upload limits: Configure upload limits that meet your specific needs to prevent server overload. This ensures that users can upload necessary files without exceeding the server’s capacity. Evaluate the typical file types and sizes you upload, and use server settings or plugins to set sensible upload limits. This can be managed via your hosting control panel or with plugins that allow for upload limit configurations.
• Optimize file sizes before uploading: Keeping file sizes small eases the load on servers, lowering the risk of exceeding upload limits. Utilize tools like image compressors or video editing software to downsize files before uploading. WordPress also offers plugins that can automatically optimize images upon upload. You can also use a performance plugin to help optimize these files. 
• Use a CDN for large files: A Content Delivery Network (CDN) distributes file-serving loads across multiple servers globally, preventing a single server from becoming overwhelmed. Select a CDN provider and configure your WordPress site to use their service, either through a plugin or by adjusting your site settings to integrate with the CDN.
• Enable chunked uploads in plugins: Chunked uploads break large files into smaller parts, simplifying the upload process and reducing server strain. Find upload or file management plugins that support chunked uploads, and activate this feature within the plugin settings to enhance upload efficiency. Use plugins like Upload Large Plugins to do so. 
• Monitor server resources regularly: Keeping an eye on server resource usage can help you predict and avoid potential issues. Use your hosting control panel or third-party monitoring tools to gain real-time insights into memory, CPU, and disk usage.
• Adjust server configurations proactively: Regular updates to server settings can prevent outdated configurations from causing errors. Routinely review server settings, especially when updating your site or adding significant new content. Consulting with your hosting provider for recommendations can also be beneficial.
• Educate users on file requirements: Inform users about required file specifications to reduce the chance of uploading excessively large files that might trigger errors. Provide clear guidelines or a help page detailing acceptable file types and sizes for uploads.
• Use efficient media management plugins: Media management plugins assist in managing and optimizing files, keeping them within size limits and well-organized. Research and install plugins that offer features like auto-optimization and better media file organization.
• Select quality themes and plugins: Choose lightweight and regularly updated plugins. Test updates on a staging site before applying them to the live site to ensure compatibility and functionality.
• Consider upgrading your hosting: If your site has expanded, migrating to a new web host can offer additional resources and higher upload limits. Analyze your current usage against future requirements and what your host provides. Opting for a web host with enhanced support that can avert future upload-related issues.

Final Thoughts

The upload limit for your WordPress site is often dictated by your hosting provider. As such, you may need to adjust this limit to accommodate larger files, depending on your website’s requirements. Keep in mind that altering these settings requires caution. Always ensure you have a backup of your site using a dependable backup plugin like MalCare before making any changes. This precaution allows you to swiftly restore your site to its previous state if anything goes awry. Prioritizing backups provides peace of mind while striving to enhance your site’s performance.

FAQs

How can I resolve the “413 Request Entity Too Large” error in WordPress?

To address this error, consider increasing the file upload size limit within your WordPress settings. You can achieve this by using a plugin that adjusts settings, altering the .htaccess file, or editing the functions.php file of your theme. If these solutions don’t work, reaching out to your hosting provider for help is advisable. Always ensure to back up your site with a tool like MalCare before implementing any changes.

How do I resolve a “413 Request Entity Too Large” error?

To fix the “413 Request Entity Too Large” error, you need to increase the server’s file size limits. This can be done by modifying server configuration files such as .htaccess, php.ini, or nginx.conf, or by using a WordPress plugin to change these limits conveniently. If you’re uncertain how to proceed, your hosting provider can make these adjustments for you.

What does “413 Content too large” mean?

The “413 Content Too Large” error is an HTTP status code that signals the data being sent to the server (like a file upload) exceeds the current server limitations. You can resolve this error by increasing these limits within the server’s configuration settings.