How to Find and Access WordPress Error Logs (Step by Step)
Here’s a step-by-step guide on finding and accessing WordPress error logs:
1. Enable Debug Mode:
WordPress doesn’t record errors by default. You need to enable debug mode. There are two ways to do this:
- Using a Plugin: Install a plugin like “WP Debugging” or “Query Monitor”. These plugins offer user-friendly interfaces to manage debug mode and view logs.
- Using Code: Edit the
wp-config.php
file located in your WordPress root directory. Add the following line before the/* That's all, stop editing! Happy blogging. */
line:
define( 'WP_DEBUG', true );
define( 'WP_DEBUG_LOG', true );
2. Access the Error Log File:
Once debug mode is enabled, WordPress will start recording errors in a file called debug.log
. You can access this file through two methods:
- File Manager: Most hosting providers offer a file manager tool in their control panel. Use it to navigate to the
/wp-content/
folder and locate thedebug.log
file. You can then download the file to your computer and open it with a text editor. - FTP Client: Connect to your website using an FTP client like FileZilla using your FTP credentials. Navigate to the
/wp-content/
folder and download thedebug.log
file.
3. Understanding the Log File:
The debug.log
file will contain technical information about errors, warnings, and notices. It might be challenging to understand for beginners. Here are some tips:
- Look for lines starting with “ERROR”: These indicate critical errors that need immediate attention.
- Search for specific keywords related to the issue you’re facing.
- Use online resources or consult a developer if you need help interpreting the logs.
4. Disable Debug Mode (Optional):
After you’ve identified and fixed the errors, it’s recommended to disable debug mode for security reasons. Remove the lines you added to the wp-config.php
file or deactivate the debugging plugin.
Remember, enabling debug mode can expose sensitive information, so only use it when troubleshooting specific issues and disable it afterwards.