8 Quick Fixes to HTTP 500 Internal Server Error

By Last Updated: February 2, 2024
http error 500 internal server error 3d render illustration

The HTTP (hypertext transfer protocol) 500 Internal server Error is a generic error message and covers undesired issues that are not suitable for the existing error codes. It prevents the server from fulfilling the request. As an extensive array of problems at the server end trigger HTTP 500 errors, it is tricky to sort out/fix them. 

Causes of the 500 Error Code

The 500 Error Code is a common internal server issue. It does not relate to your browser, computer, or internet connection. Instead, it has an association with an unexplainable server error. You can see a message like this on your device screen – 500. That’s an error, the server encountered an error and could not complete your request, or HTTP 500. The HTTP 500 Internal Server Error occurs due to the following causes:

  • Broken or corrupted .Htaccess file
  • A permission error
  • Faulty 3rd-party themes or plugins
  • Browser compatibility issues
  • Exceeding the PHP memory limit
  • Error in backend server
  • Corrupted website’s database
  • Problems with the MySQL server
  • Corrupted WordPress core files
  • Large files on your website
  • Faulty browser cache
  • Temporary connectivity issues
  • Incorrect database login credentials
  • Faulty database

Variations of the 500 Internal Server Error

An HTTP 500 internal server error appears in several different ways on your device screen due to numerous operating systems, web servers, and web browsers. However, they represent the same issue/error meaning. Here are some variations of the 500 error code for your reference:

  • HTTP 500
  • Internal Server Error 
  • 500 Error 
  • 500 Internal Server Error 
  • HTTP 500 – Internal server Error
  • HTTP Error 500
  • 500 Internal server Error. Sorry something went wrong 
  • The website cannot display the page – HTTP 500   
  • 500. That’s an error. There was an error. Please try again later. That’s all we know
  • Is currently unable to handle this request. HTTP 500
  • HTTP Status 500 – Internal Server Error
  • Temporary Error (500)

Refresh/Reload the page 

Computer Keyboard Black

Step 1: Go to the top left corner of your web browser. 

Step 2: Click on the Reload/Refresh icon. Or touch the F5 key/Ctrl+F5 keys  on your Windows computer and Command+R for Mac PC.

Clear your browser cookies and cache

browser

Step 1: Go to the three-dot icon on the top right corner of your web browser, such as Microsoft Edge. 

Step 2: Click on it to go to History by scrolling down the options. 

Step 3: Tap on the Delete icon under the History window. 

Step 4: Choose a time range under the Clear Browsing Data (Prefer All Time). 

Step 5: Check the box against each option. 

Step 6: Now, tap on the Clear Now option. 

Note – These steps could vary a little based on your device and web browser. You need to follow browser or device specific steps to clear cache and cookies. 

Use another network to visit the website

  • Think about switching your network. Opt for a cable connection or mobile data or internet connection if you are using a WiFi network.    

Check for the website’s error logs

Step 1: Go to your website’s section in the Client Area. 

Step 2: Launch the Site Tools of a respective website. 

Step 3: Tap on Error Log after choosing Statistics. 

Step 4: Go to a specific folder from File Manager. 

Step 5: Edit the .htaccess file.

Step 6: Correct the errors you see on the Error Logs. 

Check and reset file and folder permissions 

  • Follow the app specific instructions to reset the file and folder permissions. 
  • For a WordPress website, you can:

Step 1: Go to the Site Tools.

Step 2: Choose WordPress.

Step 3: Move to Install & Manage. 

Step 4: Now, select Manage Installations.

Step 5: Tap on Reset Permissions after going to the kebab menu

Check whether the website server is down

Step 1: Type the URL – downforeveryoneorjustme.com – in your web browser. 

Step 2: Copy and paste the website address for which you have noticed an internal server error. 

Step 3: See the message on your screen. It can display It’s Just You if there is no server side issue. 

Deactivate a theme or plugin if the issue is on your website

wordpress social media simple minimal modern corporate gradient 3d illustration background

Step 1: Go to the Dashboard of your WordPress website. 

Step 2: Select Plugins and Installed Plugins. 

Step 3: Deactivate the first one. 

Step 4: Mark it as a faulty plugin if the issue is resolved. 

Step 5: Move to another plugin and deactivate it after activating the first one. 

Step 6: Repeat the deactivation and activation process for all your plugins to find the faulty ones. 

Use a plugin to find out the issue

  • Think about installing a plugin if you have a WordPress website and are comfortable with WP debugging processes.   

Apart from the above solutions/fixes, you can try to fix syntax errors in .htaccess, change the PHP version, sort out the wrong website’s root folder, and regenerate the .htaccess file. You can also repair your database, change the theme, increase your PHP memory, and contact your web hosting service provider. 

See More
See More

you might also like