Elementor is one of the most popular page builders for WordPress, known for its user-friendly interface and powerful design capabilities. However, sometimes users encounter the dreaded “500 Internal Server Error” when updating Elementor or Elementor Pro. This error can be frustrating, but don’t worry—it’s usually fixable. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to diagnose and resolve this issue.
What is a 500 Internal Server Error?
The 500 Internal Server Error is a generic HTTP status code indicating that something went wrong on the server, but the server could not be more specific about what the exact problem is. When this error occurs during an Elementor update, it usually means that the server is unable to handle the request due to resource limitations or conflicts with other plugins or themes.Common Causes of the 500 Internal Server Error in Elementor
- PHP Memory Limit Exhaustion: Elementor is a resource-intensive plugin. If your server’s PHP memory limit is too low, it can cause a 500 error during updates.
- Conflicts with Other Plugins or Themes: Sometimes, Elementor might conflict with other plugins or the active theme, leading to server errors.
- Outdated PHP Version: Elementor requires a minimum PHP version to function correctly. Running on an outdated PHP version can trigger errors.
- Corrupted .htaccess File: The .htaccess file in your WordPress installation controls how URLs are handled and can sometimes become corrupted, leading to 500 errors.
- Server Configuration Issues: Misconfigurations in server settings, such as file permissions, can also lead to this error.
How to Fix the 500 Internal Server Error in Elementor
1. Increase PHP Memory Limit
One of the most common causes of this error is insufficient PHP memory. You can increase the PHP memory limit by editing the wp-config.php file in your WordPress installation.
- Connect to your site via FTP or use the file manager in your hosting control panel.
- Locate the wp-config.php file in the root directory of your WordPress installation.
- Add the following line of code just before the line that says /* That’s all, stop editing! Happy publishing. */:
- Save the file and try updating Elementor again.
2. Deactivate All Plugins Except Elementor
To check if a plugin conflict is causing the issue, try deactivating all plugins except Elementor.
- Go to the WordPress Dashboard.
- Navigate to Plugins > Installed Plugins.
- Deactivate all plugins except Elementor and Elementor Pro.
- Try updating Elementor again.
If the update is successful, reactivate your plugins one by one to identify the conflicting plugins.
3. Switch to a Default WordPress Theme
If deactivating plugins doesn’t resolve the issue, the problem might lie with your theme.
- Go to Appearance > Themes in your WordPress Dashboard.
- Activate a default theme like Twenty Twenty-One.
- Try updating Elementor again.
If the update works, the issue likely lies with your previous theme.
4. Update Your PHP Version
Elementor requires PHP version 7.4 or higher. You can usually update your PHP version from your hosting control panel.
- Log in to your hosting account.
- Look for the PHP settings or version manager.
- Select a PHP version of 7.4 or higher.
- Apply the changes and try updating Elementor again.
If you’re unsure how to do this, contact your hosting provider for assistance.
5. Check and Restore the .htaccess File
The .htaccess file is critical to WordPress’s proper functioning, and a corrupted file can cause server errors.
- Connect to your site via FTP.
- Locate the
.htaccessfile in your WordPress root directory. - Rename it to
.htaccess_old. - Log in to your WordPress Dashboard and go to Settings > Permalinks.
- Click “Save Changes” to regenerate a new .htaccess file.
Try updating Elementor again after regenerating the file.
6. Check File Permissions
Incorrect file permissions can also cause a 500 error. Ensure that the correct file permissions are set on your WordPress files and folders.
- Folders should typically have permissions set to
755. - Files should typically have permissions set to
644.
You can adjust these permissions via FTP or your hosting control panel.
7. Contact Your Hosting Provider
If you’ve tried all of the above steps and are still encountering the 500 Internal Server Error, it may be a server configuration issue that only your hosting provider can resolve. Contact their support team, explain the issue, and ask them to check the server logs for more specific information.
Joynal
Thank you
IT Castle
You are Welcome
Dirayaah
Very Helpful Post, Thank you so much.