WordPress sites can sometimes encounter errors. While the problem might be small, it can have a big impact, and figuring out the root cause can often take a long time. In this article, you’ll find ways and tools to help you troubleshoot your site efficiently.
Troubleshooting Tools and Tips
Start troubleshooting systematically using these guidelines. Remember that using a staging environment (shadow) is the best way to test solutions without risk to the live production site.
1. Check Log Files
The site’s log files record nearly all events related to its operation.
First Place to Check: Look at the PHP error log in the WordPress admin under Tools > Logs >
php-error.log, or directly on the server in/data/log/php-error.log.Action: If you find references to a specific plugin in the log, temporarily disable the plugin and check if the problem is fixed.
2. Purge Caches
Caches speed up the site, but they can sometimes be the cause of undesired outcomes.
Action: Purge caches in the WordPress admin, or from the command line with the
wp-purge-cachecommand.
3. Test with a Default Theme
Your current theme might contain conflicting or broken code.
Action: Try using one of the default themes that come with WordPress (any of the Twenty themes). If the problem is resolved, take a closer look at your main theme and its files.
4. Disable Plugins One by One
If the issue is not resolved by checking logs or the theme, the fault often lies with a third-party plugin.
Best Practice: Disable plugins one by one first in a staging environment (shadow). If the problem was resolved for a particular plugin, take a closer look at its files.
5. Install an Older Version
Sometimes broken code is introduced to the site with a new plugin or theme version.
Solution: Install an older version of the theme or plugin temporarily until a patch is released.
Themes by version: https://themes.svn.wordpress.org
Plugins by version: https://plugins.svn.wordpress.org
6. Premium (Paid) Themes and Plugins
If you encounter problems, you should contact the developers of the theme or plugin directly. Also, check their documentation and support forums to find out if other users are experiencing the same issue.
7. Remove Old WordPress Transients
Remove old WordPress transients, as they can sometimes contain outdated or erroneous cache data. You could also try to deactivate Redis object cache temporarily.
Problems Persist – What Next?
If this list did not help you resolve your problem, please contact our customer support via email. Please gather as much information as possible about the problem so that we can resolve the issue quickly and efficiently. The following details will greatly assist us:
Knowing when the problem started.
The exact steps on how the error occurs (i.e., how the problem can be reproduced).
Whether the problem started after a specific action, such as an update.
If possible, include screenshots and any error messages in your email.
Need Help?
If you need further assistance, please send your request and gathered information to [email protected].