How To Fix: 500 Internal Server Error

The error code 500 is a general HTTP status code. It generally implies that something went wrong on the server of the website. But the server can’t be more particular on detecting the exact problem.

Often the 500 internal server error message reads as “The website cannot display the page”.

The 500 internal server error can be seen on almost every page of your website when the problem arises with the file system or server that is ruling your website. It generally occurs in the root directory, where lies your WordPress files. Also, it might be caused by an issue on your host’s server.

Fixes to Solve 500 Internal Server Error

If you are a website administrator, you can troubleshoot the error from the server-side. There can be many reasons for this error viz. External Resource Timeout, Issues caused by wrong directory and file permissions. Or misconfiguration in .htaccess file. The list below will help you in solving the aforesaid issue. Let us go through them one by one.

Examine the Error Logs

When you see any error message, your first step is to examine any error logs like Apache & PHP for your server. With the help of these logs, you can gain valuable context in relation to any code failures or any other possible causes of website failure. 

An .Htaccess File Error

If you are using on your website a .htaccess, it might be troubling you with the web page that you are attempting to upload in your browser. So, double examine the configuration of the .htaccess. Any type of syntax error might generate a 500 Internal Server Error on your website.

For confirmation, if any misconfigured .htaccess is the reason behind 500 Internal Server errors, you can temporarily either rename or delete the .htaccess file and again try reloading the page.

Increase WordPress’s PHP Memory Limit

Plugins, themes, scripts generally consumes huge memory. Just add the following code line in your php.ini file, “memory_limit=64M” which is there in your home directory. 

In addition, if you are making use of PHP version which is above 5.3 and .htaccess file comprises of a line “register_globals=on”, all you need is to remove it & reload your website. This is because register globals only support up to PHP 5.3.

Examine WordPress Plugins

The WordPress plugins might be another reason for the Temporary Error 500. If after activating any new plugin, you see this error message, deactivate the new plugin and refresh your site. 

Permission Errors

Mostly, the temporary error 500 occurs as a result of an incorrect permission on more than one folders or files. Generally, a wrong permission on a CGI or PHP script is the cause of its origin. You should set them at 0755(-rwxr-xr-x).