4 Easy Methods for Fixing WordPress Memory Limit Error

If you've ever run into the WordPress memory limit error, you're not alone. This issue happens when WordPress runs out of memory while trying to load certain tasks, leading to frustrating error messages like “Allowed memory size exhausted.” It can cause parts of your website to stop working or even crash your entire site. 

Thankfully, fixing this problem is usually straightforward, and you don’t need to be a tech expert to do it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple methods to increase your site's memory limit, so everything runs smoothly again. 

We’ll also explain why this error occurs and offer tips to prevent it from happening in the future. By the end, you'll know exactly how to handle this error and keep your site performing at its best. Let’s dive into the steps and get your WordPress site back on track!

What Is The WordPress Memory Limit Error?

The WordPress memory limit error happens when your website runs out of the memory it needs to perform certain tasks. Just like a computer, WordPress has a set amount of memory to use, called the memory limit. 

This limit ensures that your site doesn’t overload your server by using too many resources at once. However, if your site has heavy plugins, themes, or high traffic, it can quickly reach this limit.

When WordPress hits the memory limit, you’ll likely see error messages like “Allowed memory size exhausted.” This means WordPress is trying to use more memory than it’s allowed, and it can’t complete the task. 

This can cause parts of your site to break or even stop it from loading altogether. Understanding this error is important because, without enough memory, your site can’t run smoothly. The good news is that increasing the memory limit is a relatively easy fix.

Why You Encounter WordPress Memory Limit Error?

There are a few common reasons why you might run into the WordPress memory limit error. One of the biggest culprits is outdated plugins or themes. If these aren’t updated regularly, they can use more resources than they should, leading to memory issues. 

Another reason could be that your site has heavy or complex configurations. For example, if you’re running several large plugins, handling high traffic, or have a lot of media files, it can quickly push WordPress over the memory limit.

Finally, insufficient hosting resources can also cause this error. Some hosting plans come with limited memory, especially if you’re using a basic or shared hosting package. 

As your site grows, it may need more memory than what your hosting plan provides. Understanding these causes can help you pinpoint the problem and find the right solution to prevent memory-limit errors from affecting your site’s performance.

Methods To Fix WordPress Memory Limit Error

Here’s how to fix the WordPress memory limit error using different methods. Whether you’re a beginner or have more technical experience, these steps should help resolve the issue and get your site running smoothly again.

1. Increase Memory Limit via wp-config.php

One of the easiest ways to fix the WordPress memory limit error is by increasing the memory limit through the wp-config.php file. This file controls many of WordPress’ core settings, and adjusting the memory limit is a simple fix. Here's how to do it:

1. Access Your Site’s Files: You can do this via FTP (File Transfer Protocol) or through your hosting provider’s file manager.
2. Find the wp-config.php File: This file is located in your root directory, usually named “public_html” or “www.”
3. Open wp-config.php: Right-click on the file and select “Edit.”
4. Add Memory Limit Code: Look for the line that says `/* That's all, stop editing! Happy publishing. */`. Right above that line, add this code:  

   define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '128M');

You can replace `128M` with `256M` if your site needs more memory. Generally, starting with 128MB is sufficient for most websites.

5. Save the File: Once you’ve added the code, save the file and upload it back to your server.

After this, your WordPress site should have more memory available. If you’re still experiencing issues, you can try increasing the limit to 256MB.

2. Modify PHP.ini File (for Advanced Users)

If increasing the memory limit in wp-config.php doesn’t work, you can try editing the PHP.ini file. This file controls your server’s PHP settings, including the memory limit WordPress can use. Here’s how to modify it:

1. Locate the PHP.ini File: You’ll usually find this file in your server’s root directory. If you don’t see it, your hosting provider may not allow you to modify it directly. In that case, you’ll need to contact them for help.
2. Open the PHP.ini File: If you can access the file, open it using a text editor.
3. Find the memory_limit Line: Look for a line that says `memory_limit = 64M`. This is the default setting for many servers.
4. Increase the Memory Limit: Change the value from `64M` to `128M`, `256M`, or higher, depending on your needs. Here’s an example:  

   memory_limit = 128M

5. Save the Changes: Once you’ve made the adjustments, save the file and restart your server for the changes to take effect.

This method gives you more control over your server’s memory settings, but it’s a bit more advanced. If you’re not comfortable doing this, it’s okay to ask your hosting provider for assistance.

3. Adjust .htaccess File

Another quick way to fix the WordPress memory limit error is by editing the .htaccess file. This file controls how your server behaves and can also be used to increase memory.

1. Find the .htaccess File: Like the wp-config.php file, you’ll find .htaccess in your site’s root directory.
2. Open and Edit the File: Use a text editor to open the file. Be careful not to delete or change anything by accident, as this file can impact your site’s functionality.
3. Add Memory Limit Code: At the top or bottom of the file, add this line of code:

   php_value memory_limit 128M

Just like with the wp-config.php method, you can adjust the value to 256MB or more if needed.

4. Save and Upload: Save your changes and upload the file back to your server.

Editing the .htaccess file is a quick and easy method, but not all hosting providers allow changes to this file. If it doesn’t work, don’t worry there’s one more solution.

4. Contact Your Hosting Provider

If none of the above methods solve the WordPress memory limit error, it might be time to reach out to your hosting provider. Some hosting plans come with strict limits on how much memory your site can use, and no amount of tweaking files will fix the issue. In this case, your hosting provider can help in a couple of ways:

1. Increase Memory on Their End: Some hosts can manually increase your site’s memory limit from their control panel, which could solve the problem without any additional work on your part.
2. Upgrade Your Hosting Plan: If your current hosting plan doesn’t provide enough memory for your growing site, upgrading to a higher-tier plan may be necessary. Managed WordPress hosting or VPS (Virtual Private Server) plans usually offer more resources, including higher memory limits.

Your hosting provider can guide you on the best option for your specific situation.

Tips for Preventing Future Memory Limit Errors

• To avoid running into the WordPress memory limit error again, there are a few things you can do. First, always keep your WordPress core, themes, and plugins updated. Outdated versions often consume more memory and can cause compatibility issues, so regular updates are key.
• Next, monitor your server resources. Many hosting providers offer dashboards where you can track how much memory your site is using. If you notice that your site is consistently hitting the memory limit, you may need to upgrade your hosting plan.
• Finally, try to use lightweight themes just like premium WordPress templates provided by Buy WP Templates and well-optimized plugins. Some themes and plugins are more resource-heavy than others. Choosing well-coded and optimized options will help reduce the load on your server and minimize memory-related issues.

Troubleshooting If Memory Limit Fixes Don’t Work

If increasing the memory limit doesn’t fix the problem, there might be other issues at play. Check your server or plugin settings for conflicts, and look at your error logs for clues. 

These logs often contain detailed information about what's going wrong, which can help you pinpoint the issue and find a solution. Sometimes, plugins or server configurations may need additional adjustments beyond just increasing memory.

Conclusion