Fix Critical Error in WordPress: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Is your WordPress site down and displaying the message "There has been a critical error on this website"? Don’t worry! This guide will show you how to fix the critical error in WordPress using effective solutions.

Table of Contents

• What Is a Critical Error in WordPress?
• How to Fix a Critical Error in WordPress
• CrashGuard WP: The Fastest Solution

What Is a Critical Error in WordPress?

A critical error in WordPress happens when a core failure prevents your site from working properly. Common causes include:

• Faulty or incompatible plugins
• Database conflicts
• Corrupt WordPress files
• Insufficient PHP memory limit

How to Fix a Critical Error in WordPress

1. Enable Debug Mode

To identify the issue:

1. Access your server via FTP or cPanel.
2. Find the wp-config.php file in the root directory.
3. Add the following lines:

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

4. Save the changes and check the debug.log file inside wp-content.

2. Deactivate Plugins and Themes Manually

If you can’t access WordPress, try this:

• Deactivate plugins:
• Connect via FTP.
• Rename the folder wp-content/plugins to plugins_old.
• Change the theme:
• Inside wp-content/themes/, rename the active theme folder.

CrashGuard WP: Instantly deactivate all plugins without server access.

3. Increase PHP Memory Limit

If the issue is memory-related:

1. Open wp-config.php and add:

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

2. If that doesn’t work, edit .htaccess and add:

   php_value memory_limit 256M
       

4. Restore the .htaccess File

If the error is caused by a corrupt .htaccess file:

• Access your site via FTP and locate .htaccess.
• Rename it to .htaccess_old.
• Go to Settings > Permalinks and click "Save Changes."

CrashGuard WP PRO: Fixes permalinks instantly with one click.

CrashGuard WP: The Fastest Solution

If you want a fast and easy solution without touching code, CrashGuard WP helps you fix WordPress errors in seconds:

CrashGuard Lite (FREE):

• Instantly deactivate all plugins.
• Receive a secret URL via email to deactivate plugins remotely.

CrashGuard PRO (Premium):

• Fix permalinks with one click.
• Switch to the default theme.
• Clear cache instantly.
• Logging system to track actions.
• Priority support included.

Download CrashGuard Lite for FREE

Get CrashGuard PRO

Learn more about common WordPress errors