What Is an Internal Server Error and How to Fix It Easily

When you visit a website, it’s not uncommon to see a message that says “internal server error.” This indicates that a problem has occurred. But what exactly is an internal server error, and how can you fix it? Let’s find out in the following review!

What Is an Internal Server Error?

An internal server error occurs when your web server is experiencing an issue but cannot pinpoint the exact location of the error. When this happens, the website will display a page with the message “Internal Server Error.”

What Causes an Internal Server Error?

Internal server errors don’t just happen out of the blue. There are several factors that can contribute to them. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. File or Directory Permissions

One cause of an internal server error can be issues with file or directory permissions. Ensure file permissions are set to 644 and directory permissions to 755.

2. Browser Cache

Second, an internal server error can also be caused by browser cache that fails to load files from the target server because the cache hasn’t been updated. If this happens, the first step you can take is to clear the browser cache. To do this, press the Ctrl+F key combination.

Keep in mind that these internal server errors are usually temporary, for example, because the website is using abnormal amounts of CPU or RAM resources, causing the server to limit resource usage so as not to disrupt other users.

3. Check the Error_log

Next, try analyzing the issue by reviewing the file called error_log. This file is stored in the same directory as the script that triggered the internal server error message. Then, you can contact your hosting provider’s technical support if the error message persists or if you’re unsure how to resolve it.

4. Check the .htaccess File

Fourth, an internal server error can also be caused by a configuration error in the .htaccess file. To determine this, rename the existing .htaccess file in the public_html directory to something else, then try reopening your website.

5. Hosting Limitations

Another cause of internal server errors is limitations in the hosting package you’re using. Each hosting plan typically has different limits. You need to understand these limitations, especially regarding website visitor access.

6. Malware Attacks

Another potential cause of internal server errors is a malware attack on the computer system or server. These attacks can be serious because even after you’ve tried to clean them up, there are usually residual hidden virus files left behind. To prevent this, make it a habit to always use security plugins on your server.

7. Plugin Crashes

Finally, another cause of internal server errors is when a plugin crashes. That’s why you must maintain your plugins properly to avoid errors.

If you’re experiencing issues due to a plugin crash, it’s still a minor issue and can be resolved on your own. The simplest solution is to deactivate the plugin causing the error. If the plugin is necessary, you can reinstall the problematic one.

How to Fix an Internal Server Error?

The good news is that an internal server error is a solvable problem. You can try the following methods:

1. Deactivate Plugins or Themes

The plugins you’re using might not be compatible with your server’s configuration. To resolve this, try deactivating all plugins and themes first. If everything returns to normal after deactivating them, reactivate the first plugin one by one. Then, repeat this process of enabling and disabling them one by one.

2. Check the Code in the .htaccess File

Please note that incorrect coding, or an incorrect structure in the .htaccess file, can be one of the causes of an internal server error. The function of the .htaccess file is to help manage the duration of resources that should be stored in the browser cache.

Therefore, try editing the .htaccess file if you notice an error caused by this. To locate the .htaccess file, you can access it on the website via a file manager such as cPanel or FTP/SFTP. Typically, this file is located in the root directory.

3. Ensure PHP Is Configured Correctly

Next, if this internal server error is caused by a PHP timeout, try adjusting the timeout settings to resolve the issue. Additionally, incorrect file permissions can prevent PHP or CGI scripts from running. Therefore, review your permissions and ensure they are correctly configured on the server.

4. Ensure All Software Is Properly Installed

Finally, double-check all installed software, especially newly installed ones. Ensure that all software is fully and correctly installed. If any software failed to install, that could be the cause of the internal server error.

That’s an explanation of the internal server error commonly experienced by many people. This situation isn’t unusual; rather, it indicates that something is wrong with the website you’re using.

To minimize the occurrence of this issue, ensure you build your website with high-quality hosting, such as that provided by Cloudmatika. For this purpose, Cloudmatika is an authorized partner of Virtuozzo, an advanced and powerful dedicated hosting service with high scalability. You can also use Cloudmatika’s Virtual Private Server and Virtual Private Cloud services to enhance the performance of your business website. Contact Cloudmatika today to start building your website!