If you’re a business owner running a WordPress site, chances are you’ve run into frustrating errors that seem to appear out of nowhere. Whether it’s a broken plugin or a mysteriously blank page, these issues can cost you traffic, sales, and credibility.
As a professional WordPress developer, I’ve helped clients fix everything from small bugs to site-breaking problems. In this post, I’ll walk you through 10 of the most common WordPress issues and how I fix them quickly and effectively saving businesses time, stress, and money.
Whether you’re just getting started or managing a large website, this guide will help you understand the problems you’re facing and why hiring an expert might be your best move.
1. White Screen of Death (WSOD)
The Problem:
You load your website and all you see is a blank white screen. No error message. No dashboard access.
How I Fix It:
I start by checking for PHP errors in the logs and increasing the memory limit in the wp-config.php file. If the problem persists, I deactivate themes and plugins via FTP to isolate the culprit. Once found, I apply the fix or replace the broken component.
Why It Matters:
This issue hides everything, making it impossible to troubleshoot without technical access.
2. Plugin Conflicts
The Problem:
After installing or updating a plugin, your site starts acting up buttons stop working, pages break, or worse, you get locked out of the admin.
How I Fix It:
I replicate the issue on a staging environment and review console errors and plugin compatibility. I disable and test each plugin individually, then replace or rewrite the conflicting code to ensure long-term compatibility.
Why It Matters:
Conflicts between plugins can cause hidden bugs that damage your site’s functionality.
3. Slow Website Loading
The Problem:
Your website takes forever to load, frustrating users and affecting SEO rankings.
How I Fix It:
I conduct a full performance audit using tools like GTmetrix and WebPageTest. Then I optimize images, minify CSS/JS, set up server-side caching, and fine-tune database queries.
Why It Matters:
A slow site can cause high bounce rates and lost conversions.
4. Broken Theme Layout After Update
The Problem:
After updating your WordPress theme, the design breaks, and nothing looks like it should.
How I Fix It:
I inspect the update logs and custom code overrides. Then I either roll back safely or rebuild the custom elements within a child theme to preserve functionality during future updates.
Why It Matters:
Your brand’s visual consistency depends on a stable, responsive layout.
5. HTTP Error When Uploading Images
The Problem:
You try to upload an image and receive a generic “HTTP Error” message.
How I Fix It:
I check file permissions, memory limits, and server modules. I also ensure that the GD library or Imagick is properly installed and configured on the server.
Why It Matters:
Image uploads are essential for content and SEO. Fixing this quickly keeps your workflow moving.
6. Website Hacked or Redirected
The Problem:
Your site gets hacked, shows spammy ads, or redirects users to strange websites.
How I Fix It:
I clean up the infected files, remove malicious scripts, change all credentials, and harden the site using best practices. I also install monitoring and firewall tools to prevent future attacks.
Why It Matters:
Hacks destroy trust and can lead to blacklisting by Google.
7. Error Establishing a Database Connection
The Problem:
Your entire site shows a critical error related to database connection failure.
How I Fix It:
I verify the database credentials in the wp-config.php file, restart MySQL services, and repair corrupted database tables using phpMyAdmin or WP-CLI.
Why It Matters:
This error takes your site completely offline fixing it quickly is vital.
8. Outdated PHP Version
The Problem:
Your hosting uses an outdated PHP version, leading to compatibility issues with modern themes and plugins.
How I Fix It:
I audit the PHP version and check for compatibility across all installed plugins and themes. Then I upgrade the PHP version and update any conflicting code manually.
Why It Matters:
Old PHP versions are vulnerable and inefficient.
9. Broken Permalinks
The Problem:
Your site suddenly starts returning 404 errors on pages that used to work fine.
How I Fix It:
I go into the settings and reset permalinks or update the .htaccess file manually. I also check for plugin interference and flush rewrite rules if needed.
Why It Matters:
Broken links can harm SEO and confuse your users.
10. Can’t Send or Receive Emails
The Problem:
Contact forms or order notifications aren’t sending emails.
How I Fix It:
I configure SMTP using a secure mail plugin and test outgoing emails. I also verify that the DNS and SPF records are set up correctly.
Why It Matters:
Email is essential for customer communication, especially for eCommerce and lead generation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if a plugin is causing my WordPress issues?
Disable all plugins and reactivate them one by one. If the issue disappears after deactivation, the last plugin reactivated is likely the problem.
Can I fix WordPress errors myself?
Some minor issues can be fixed with basic troubleshooting, but core problems should be handled by a professional to avoid data loss or security vulnerabilities.
How much does it cost to fix common WordPress issues?
Costs vary depending on the severity, but I offer flexible pricing for one-time fixes or ongoing maintenance packages.
What should I do if my WordPress site is hacked?
Immediately change your passwords, contact a professional for malware cleanup, and install a security plugin to monitor future threats.
Zeeshan is a seasoned web developer with over 8+ years of experience, specializing in WordPress, Themosis, and Laravel. customized web solutions. Through his website, zeeshanwebexpert.com, Zeeshan offers professional web services, ensuring long-term solutions for clients.
