WordPress powers over 40% of websites, but even the most reliable CMS can throw frustrating errors. Instead of panicking, use this troubleshooting guide to resolve common issues like a pro.

1. The White Screen of Death
A blank white screen usually means a PHP error or plugin conflict. Fix it by:
– Logging into your server via FTP and renaming the /plugins folder to /plugins_old to disable all plugins
– Increasing your PHP memory limit in wp-config.php by adding define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '256M');
– Checking for syntax errors in recently modified theme files

2. “Internal Server Error” Messages
This generic 500 error often links to corrupted .htaccess files or exhausted server resources.
– Rename your .htaccess file via FTP (WordPress will generate a new one)
– Contact your hosting provider to check server error logs
– Reduce resource-heavy elements like unoptimized images (tools like Photozilla, ShortPixel, or Imagify can compress them)

3. “Error Establishing Database Connection”
Your site can’t connect to its database. Try these fixes:
– Verify database credentials in wp-config.php
– Repair your database via hosting tools like phpMyAdmin
– Ask your host if the database server is down

4. 404 Errors on Posts/Pages
Broken permalinks are the usual suspect here:
– Go to Settings > Permalinks and click “Save Changes” to refresh rules
– Check for conflicting redirect plugins
– Ensure your .htaccess file has write permissions

5. Slow-Loading Websites
Speed issues often stem from:
– Unoptimized images (use Photozilla’s AI upscaling or TinyPNG before uploading)
– Too many plugins – disable unused ones
– Lack of caching – install WP Rocket or LiteSpeed Cache

6. Failed Updates & Maintenance Mode Loops
A stuck update can leave your site in maintenance mode indefinitely:
– Delete the .maintenance file via FTP
– Manually update WordPress core/plugins via your hosting dashboard
– Increase PHP execution time in php.ini

7. Login Page Refreshing Without Error Messages
This login loop often occurs due to cookie conflicts:
– Clear browser cookies and cache
– Add define('COOKIE_DOMAIN', $_SERVER['HTTP_HOST']); to wp-config.php
– Disable security plugins temporarily

Pro Tip: Always back up your site before making changes! Tools like UpdraftPlus or your hosting’s native backup system can save hours of frustration.

Most WordPress errors have logical solutions once you know where to look. Bookmark this guide, keep your toolkit handy (including image optimizers like Photozilla for lighter media files), and you’ll be back to publishing content – not debugging – in no time.