WordPress Troubleshooting Guide: How to Fix Common Issues Easily
Table of Contents
Even though WordPress is beginner-friendly, you’ll probably run into a few problems along the way.
Don’t worry — most issues have simple, quick fixes.
This guide will help you understand and fix the most common WordPress errors, step by step.
⚠️ 1. White Screen of Death
You open your site… and see nothing but a blank white screen. Scary, right?
Possible Causes:
- Plugin conflict
- Theme error
- Exhausted memory limit
Fixes:
- Disable plugins via File Manager or FTP
- Switch to default theme (like Twenty Twenty-One)
- Increase memory limit via wp-config.php
🔁 2. Plugin or Theme Not Working
You installed a plugin or theme, but it breaks the layout or causes errors.
Fix:
- Deactivate the plugin/theme
- Check if it’s updated
- Use only plugins/themes that are compatible with your WordPress version
💡 Keep your site light — don’t overload it with plugins.
🧱 3. Broken Layout After Customization
Sometimes changing fonts, colors, or adding CSS can break the design.
Fix:
- Revert the changes in the Customizer
- Remove extra CSS
- Clear your cache (especially if using LiteSpeed Cache)
🧩 4. Plugin Installation Failed
This usually happens because of:
- File size limits
- Server settings
- Incomplete uploads
Fix:
- Install plugins via Plugins > Add New
- Or upload manually via File Manager > wp-content/plugins/
- Make sure the plugin is in .zip format
🔑 5. Can’t Access Admin Area
You’re locked out of your WordPress dashboard?
That’s a common issue!
Fixes:
- Reset your password via “Lost your password?”
- Use phpMyAdmin to change password manually
- Deactivate faulty plugins via FTP
🔒 6. Security Warnings or Spam Attacks
If your site gets hacked or flagged, stay calm.
What to Do:
- Install Wordfence or Sucuri
- Scan your website
- Change passwords and admin email
- Restore from backup if needed
🔗 Learn more: WordPress Security Tips
🔁 Quick Fix Summary
| Issue | Quick Fix |
| White Screen | Deactivate plugins / switch theme |
| Plugin not working | Update or replace it |
| Layout broken | Remove recent changes / clear cache |
| Can’t log in | Reset password / check plugins |
| Spam or security warning | Scan with Wordfence / change passwords |
📚 Related Guides
💬 Final Thoughts
WordPress issues happen — even to experienced users.
The key is to stay calm, follow simple steps, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
You’ve got this!
And if something breaks? It just means you’re learning 💪