How to Fix HTTP Error 500 (Internal Server Error)

HTTP Error 500 – the “Internal Server Error” – means the server hit a problem but can’t say what, so it shows a blank or generic page instead of your site. It’s almost always fixable, and usually comes from a broken .htaccess file, a PHP memory limit, or a plugin or theme conflict. Here is how to find the cause and clear it.

What the error means

A 500 error is the server’s way of saying “something went wrong on my side.” It is deliberately vague in the browser, so the real clue is in your error log, not on the page. The fix is to read that log and work through the handful of common causes below.

If you are just visiting

There is little to do from your side. Reload the page, clear your browser cache, and try again in a few minutes – the error is on the website, not your device. If it is your own site, work through the steps below.

If the website is yours

Read the error log first. It names the file and line behind the 500 and saves you guessing – see how to find and fix PHP errors.
Check your .htaccess file. Rename it (for example to .htaccess_old) and reload. If the site returns, a bad rule was the cause – in WordPress, re-save Settings → Permalinks to generate a clean one.
Raise the PHP memory limit. A page that runs out of memory throws a 500 – see PHP settings and limits in cPanel.
Rule out a plugin or theme (WordPress). Deactivate all plugins; if the site returns, re-activate them one by one to find the culprit. If not, switch to a default theme to test.
Check file permissions. Folders should be 755 and files 644; odd permissions can trigger a 500.
Try another PHP version. A version mismatch with your app or plugin can cause it – see how to change the PHP version.

On JetHost hosting

You can read your error log and change PHP settings from cPanel on any JetHost plan. If the log points somewhere you can’t fix, open a ticket with the exact log line and we’ll take it from there. Related WordPress errors: critical error on this website and error establishing a database connection.

JetHost Experts Tip

Before changing anything, rename .htaccess and reload. It takes ten seconds and clears a large share of 500 errors on its own – and WordPress rebuilds the file for you from Settings → Permalinks.

Frequently asked questions

Is a 500 error my fault or the host’s?

Usually it is something in the site – a bad .htaccess, a plugin, or a memory limit. Occasionally it is a server issue; your error log tells the two apart.

Why is the page blank with no details?

A 500 hides the detail from visitors on purpose. Turn on error logging or check the log to see the real message.

It worked an hour ago – what changed?

A recent plugin or theme update, an edited .htaccess, or a PHP version change are the usual triggers. Undo the last change first.

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Need more help?

Still seeing a 500 error on a site you host with us? Open a ticket through Client Area → Support Tickets with the latest line from your error log, and we’ll pin down the cause.