9 Proven Methods to Fix the WordPress White Screen of Death

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The WordPress White Screen of Death (WSOD) can be a frustrating issue, leaving you with a blank, white page instead of your website’s content. Here are 9 proven methods to help you troubleshoot and fix this problem:

1. Disable Plugins:

  • Deactivate All Plugins: Temporarily deactivate all your plugins to see if one is causing the issue. If the white screen disappears, reactivate plugins one by one to identify the culprit.
  • Check Plugin Logs: Look for error messages in your plugin’s logs to pinpoint the problem.

2. Check Your Theme:

  • Switch to a Default Theme: Temporarily switch to a default WordPress theme like Twenty Twenty-Three. If the white screen is resolved, your custom theme might be causing the issue.
  • Inspect Theme Files: Check for syntax errors or conflicts in your theme’s code.

3. Increase Memory Limit:

  • Edit wp-config.php: Add the following line to your wp-config.php file to increase the memory limit:
    PHP
    define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '256M');

    Adjust the value to suit your needs.

4. Check PHP Version:

  • Ensure Compatibility: Verify that your WordPress version is compatible with your PHP version. Update either if necessary.

5. Review Your .htaccess File:

  • Check for Errors: Look for syntax errors or incorrect rules in your .htaccess file. Try renaming it temporarily to see if the issue is resolved.

6. Check Server Logs:

  • Inspect Server Errors: Look for error messages in your server’s error logs to identify the root cause.

7. Restore from a Backup:

  • Rollback Changes: If you have a recent backup, restore your website to a previous working state.

8. Contact Your Hosting Provider:

  • Seek Assistance: If you’ve exhausted other options, reach out to your hosting provider for support. They may be able to help you troubleshoot the issue or provide technical assistance.

9. Use a WordPress Plugin:

  • Troubleshooting Tools: Consider using a WordPress plugin like WP Debug or Health Check & Troubleshooting to assist with diagnosing and fixing the white screen issue.

Remember to:

  • Work in a Staging Environment: If possible, test these solutions on a staging site to avoid affecting your live website.
  • Document Your Steps: Keep track of the changes you make to help you troubleshoot and revert if necessary.

By following these steps and systematically eliminating potential causes, you should be able to resolve the WordPress White Screen of Death and restore your website’s functionality.