WordPress Connection Timed Out? Here Are 8 Quick Fixes You Need To Know

You’re checking your site to ensure everything is running smoothly, and suddenly, the site stops loading due to a WordPress connection timed out error. 

This can be confusing and leave you wondering why it isn’t loading properly. You might even worry that visitors will leave before they see any of your content. 

But don’t stress, this is a common issue. We’ve hit that connection timed-out snag more times than we’d like to admit, so we’ve rounded up some easy fixes to help you get your site back on track.

TL;DR: The WordPress connection timed out error occurs when your site has trouble connecting to the server. This is commonly caused by excessive CPU usage or an overload of plugins. To avoid losing data, always make sure to backup your site before making changes to core files.

Understanding the WordPress connection timed out error

A WordPress connection timed out error occurs when your site takes too long to connect with the server, preventing access for users. This issue can arise from running too many plugins, high CPU usage, large image files, or a server struggling with your site’s traffic load.

When this error appears, your site becomes inaccessible, which can hurt both your traffic and user perception. Although it may seem like a minor glitch, it can become a persistent issue if not dealt with properly.

In some cases, conflicts between themes or plugins can add extra stress on your server. Additionally, if your server has run out of memory and lacks sufficient PHP memory, this can also trigger the error.

Understanding these causes can help you identify why the error occurs and take action to prevent it from becoming a long-term problem.

Resolving the WordPress connection timed out error

When your site has trouble communicating with the server, it often leads to a WordPress connection timed out error. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to tackle this issue:

1. Check your internet connection

Sometimes, the issue might not be with your WordPress site but with your internet connection. A weak or slow connection can cause timeouts when trying to load a site. 

To check, run an online speed test. If your connection is slow, try restarting your router. If the problem persists, consider contacting your internet service provider for help.

2. Raise PHP memory limit

You WordPress site might time out if it doesn’t have sufficient memory to operate. This is common on shared hosting plans with limited resources. You can fix this by increasing the memory limit by editing your wp-config.php file. Add this line of code:

define('WP_MEMORY_LIMIT', '256M');

This adjustment allows WordPress to utilize more memory. If necessary, you can increase 256M to a higher value. Be careful when editing the wp-config.php file, as errors in this file can lead to a crashed site. 

3. Deactivate troublesome plugins

Plugins can exhaust resources or clash with each other, causing issues. Try deactivating all plugins to see if this resolves the problem. If your site loads correctly, a plugin is likely the culprit. 

Reactivate plugins one by one to identify the problematic one. If you need to use FTP to access your files, rename the plugins folder to deactivate them all at once. 

To deactivate a specific plugin through FTP, rename its folder (e.g., pluginname_deact) and revert it to the original name to reactivate.

4. Switch to a default theme

Sometimes, themes can create problems if they’re poorly coded or conflict with other elements. Test by switching to a default theme like Twenty Twenty-Four. If your site loads with this theme, your current theme may be the issue. 

You can switch themes via the wp-admin dashboard or by renaming your theme folder through FTP to force a switch to a default theme.

5. Improve your hosting environment

If your hosting provider doesn’t allocate enough resources, your site may load slow or experience timeouts. Opt for a reliable hosting service. 

As your site grows, you may need to upgrade your hosting plan to accommodate increased traffic and resource demands.

6. Clean your database

Maintaining a clean and organized database can enhance your site’s performance. Remove unnecessary data like old drafts or spam comments to keep your database streamlined.

7. Clear cache and cookies

While cache and cookies help load sites faster, they can become outdated or corrupted, leading to issues. Regularly clear your cache and cookies to resolve this. Also, remember to clear server-side cache.

8. Adjust the PHP time limit

Server settings dictate how tasks and requests are handled. A low PHP time limit can lead to timeouts. You can increase your PHP time limit by modifying settings in files such as wp-config.php, .htaccess, and php.ini. 

If you’re unsure about making these changes, consider reaching out to your hosting provider for assistance.

Avoiding future WordPress connection timed out errors

Keeping your site running smoothly and free from WordPress connection timed out errors is simpler than you might think. Here’s how to ensure it stays that way:

Regularly update WordPress, along with your themes and plugins, to the latest versions. These updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements that enhance site functionality.

Select a dependable hosting provider that offers ample resources for your site, ensuring you have the necessary support to prevent issues.

Optimize images and media files by reducing their size. This helps your site load more quickly and minimizes the risk of timeout errors.

Conduct regular database cleanups to remove outdated data, such as old drafts and spam comments, which helps maintain site speed.

Keep an eye on your site’s performance using tools like Google Analytics. Monitoring can help you identify potential issues early on.

Implement caching plugins to store parts of your site temporarily, which can improve loading times and reduce server load.

Limit active plugins to only those essential for your site, as too many can slow down performance.

Regularly backup your site to ensure you can quickly restore it in case of any problems, keeping your data secure.

Parting thoughts

Encountering a connection timed out error can be frustrating, but the upside is that it’s often a fixable issue with some simple steps. 

To ensure your WordPress site continues to run efficiently, consistent maintenance and optimization are key. If you’re uncertain about handling any problems, your hosting provider can be an excellent resource for support.

FAQs

How to fix timeout error in WordPress? 

To address a timeout error in WordPress, first ensure your internet connection is stable. Then, consider deactivating plugins or switching to a default theme. Increasing the PHP memory and time limits can also be effective in resolving the issue.

Why is my WordPress site connection timed out? 

Your WordPress site might experience a timeout due to an excess of plugins, large image files, or high traffic volume. It could also be because your hosting provider isn’t supplying adequate resources for your site.

Why is my page timing out? 

A page may experience a timeout if the server is overwhelmed or if there’s an issue with your internet connection. Ensuring your site is optimized and your connection is stable can help prevent this.

How do I fix Err_Timed_Out? 

To resolve Err_Timed_Out, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies or restarting your router. You might also want to review your server settings or reach out to your hosting provider for help.

How to fix site can’t be reached? 

If your site can’t be reached, first verify your internet connection. Try reloading the page or accessing it from a different device. Restarting your router or clearing your browser cache might also resolve the issue. If problems persist, consider contacting your hosting provider for further assistance.