How to Fix WordPress Error 500: Internal Server Error

The HTTP 500 Internal Server Error in WordPress can be alarming, disrupting access to your website and potentially affecting user experience. This generic server-side error indicates an issue with the website’s configuration or resources but does not specify the exact cause. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can diagnose and resolve it efficiently. This guide explores the causes of the Error 500, provides step-by-step solutions, and highlights how VPS.DO’s VPS hosting can help prevent such issues with robust server resources.

Understanding the HTTP 500 Internal Server Error

The HTTP 500 error is a catch-all server-side issue, signaling that the server encountered a problem it cannot precisely identify. Unlike a 404 error (resource not found), the 500 error points to internal issues such as misconfigurations or resource limitations. Common causes include:

• Incorrect settings in the .htaccess file.
• Incompatible or faulty plugins or themes.
• Insufficient PHP memory limits.
• Incorrect file or folder permissions.
• Server overload due to high traffic or excessive plugin usage.

Hosting your WordPress site on VPS.DO’s VPS plans can mitigate issues related to server load and resource constraints, thanks to dedicated resources and high-performance NVMe SSDs.

Diagnosing and Resolving Error 500

To fix the HTTP 500 error, systematically troubleshoot potential causes. Below are the most effective solutions, designed for WordPress users with access to VPS.DO’s hosting environment.

1. Restore the .htaccess File

The .htaccess file controls server directives, and errors in its configuration, often caused by plugins, can trigger an Error 500. To resolve this:

• Access your server via FTP or SSH using credentials provided by VPS.DO.
• Locate the .htaccess file in the WordPress root directory.
• Rename it (e.g., to .htaccess_backup) to disable it, forcing WordPress to generate a new default file.
• Refresh your site to check if the error persists. If resolved, compare the original file to the default to identify problematic rules.

Allow a few minutes for server propagation and clear your browser cache if needed.

2. Check File and Folder Permissions

Incorrect permissions can prevent the server from accessing necessary files, causing an Error 500. Default permissions are typically 755 for directories and 644 for files. To verify:

• Connect to your server via FTP or VPS.DO’s file manager.
• Check permissions for the WordPress root directory and key files (e.g., wp-config.php).
• Reset to 755 (directories) or 644 (files) using your FTP client or command line.
• Test the site to confirm resolution.

3. Disable Plugins and Themes

Faulty or incompatible plugins and themes are common culprits. If you can access the WordPress admin panel:

• Navigate to Plugins > Installed Plugins and deactivate all plugins.
• Refresh your site. If the error is gone, reactivate plugins one by one to identify the faulty one.
• Switch to a default theme (e.g., Twenty Twenty-Five) to rule out theme issues.

If the admin panel is inaccessible:

• Access the server via FTP or VPS.DO’s control panel.
• Navigate to wp-content/plugins and rename the plugins folder (e.g., to plugins_disabled).
• Check the site. If resolved, rename the folder back and rename individual plugin folders one by one to isolate the issue.
• Repeat for the wp-content/themes folder if needed.

4. Increase PHP Memory Limit

Insufficient PHP memory can cause an Error 500, especially on sites with high traffic or resource-heavy plugins. To increase the limit:

• Access the wp-config.php file in the WordPress root directory via FTP.
• Add the following line before the “/* That’s all, stop editing! */” comment:
  define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '256M');
• Save and test the site. Increment to 512M if needed, but check VPS.DO’s plan limits to ensure compatibility.

VPS.DO’s VPS plans, such as the $8/month option with 4 GB memory, provide ample resources to support higher PHP memory limits.

5. Update PHP Version

Outdated PHP versions can cause compatibility issues. Updating to the latest stable PHP version (e.g., PHP 8.2 or higher in 2025) improves performance and security. Use VPS.DO’s control panel to select a newer PHP version, then test your site for compatibility with plugins and themes.

Preventing Error 500 with VPS.DO Hosting

Server resource limitations often contribute to Error 500. VPS.DO’s VPS hosting plans offer dedicated resources to prevent such issues. Below are selected plans suitable for WordPress sites:

The $8/month plan with 2 cores, 4 GB memory, and 60 GB SSD storage is ideal for most WordPress sites, offering sufficient resources to handle plugins and traffic spikes. VPS.DO’s scalable plans allow seamless upgrades as your site grows.

Best Practices to Avoid Future Errors

Prevent recurring Error 500 issues with these strategies:

• Regular Backups: Use plugins like UpdraftPlus and VPS.DO’s daily backups to protect data.
• Update Regularly: Keep WordPress, plugins, themes, and PHP up to date to avoid compatibility issues.
• Monitor Resource Usage: Use VPS.DO’s control panel to track server performance and upgrade plans if needed.
• Limit Plugins: Install only essential plugins to reduce server load and potential conflicts.

Conclusion

The WordPress HTTP 500 Internal Server Error is a manageable issue caused by configuration or resource problems. By checking the .htaccess file, verifying permissions, disabling plugins/themes, increasing PHP memory, and updating PHP, you can resolve the error efficiently. Hosting your site on VPS.DO provides dedicated resources and robust security, minimizing the risk of server-side errors. Implement regular backups and updates to ensure long-term stability and performance for your WordPress site.