A malfunctioning WordPress website can harm your online reputation and cost you valuable traffic. Whether your site displays a blank page, strange errors, or redirects to suspicious links, HostBas is here to help. In this guide, we’ll explain the most common causes of a broken WordPress website and how to fix them using our Advanced Panel, powered by Webuzo.
IMPORTANT:
Always create a backup of your website before making any changes. If you installed WordPress using the One-Click Installer within the Advanced Panel from HostBas, follow this Backup Guide for safe backup instructions. If you encounter issues, our 24/7 technical support is ready to assist.
Common Signs Your WordPress Website is Broken
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Blank page (White screen of death)
-
500 Internal Server Error
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Message: "This site is experiencing technical difficulties"
-
Redirects to unknown or malicious websites
Main Causes:
✔️ Missing or corrupted WordPress system files
✔️ Infected themes or plugins
✔️ Database errors or injected links
✔️ Hacked files or malware infection
Step 1: Check the error_log File
Locate the error_log file via your Advanced Panel > File Manager:
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For the main domain: inside public_html
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For subdomains or addon domains: check their specific root folder
Right-click the file and select View, looking for messages like:
If files are missing, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Enable PHP Error Display (Temporary)
Spot errors directly on your site by enabling error display:
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Access Advanced Panel > PHP Settings > Options
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Enable display_errors
⚠️ For security reasons, always disable this option after fixing the issue.
Step 3: Replace Missing or Corrupted WordPress Files
Quick Fix with HostBas Advanced Panel:
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Log in to Advanced Panel > One-Click Installer > WordPress > Install
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Select the same domain and install WordPress in a temporary subfolder (e.g., fix)
-
Copy missing files (e.g.,
wp-settings.php
) from the new installation to your main site folder -
Make sure both installations are the same version to avoid compatibility issues
Step 4: Fix Theme or Plugin Problems
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Review error logs for theme/plugin-related issues
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Reinstall the affected plugin or theme from official sources
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Scan your website for malware using reliable security plugins
Step 5: Stop Malicious Redirects
If your site redirects to unwanted pages:
-
Check your database via Advanced Panel > phpMyAdmin
-
Correct the
siteurl
andhome
fields in thewp_options
table -
Replace
.htaccess
with the default WordPress rules -
Disable all plugins temporarily, then reactivate one by one
Final Tip:
Stay protected by:
✅ Regularly updating WordPress, themes, and plugins
✅ Running malware scans via your Advanced Panel
✅ Using verified sources for themes and plugins
Need help? Visit hostbas.com/support or contact our support team anytime.