Getting your WordPress stuck in maintenance mode can be frustrating. This often happens after an update or when using a maintenance mode plugin. To fix this issue, you need to delete the .maintenance file from your site’s root folder.
Understanding how to tackle this problem helps you maintain a smooth experience for your visitors.
This blog will guide you through solutions to prevent disruptions and keep your WordPress site running smoothly.
Let’s get started!
What Is Maintenance Mode in WordPress?
Maintenance mode is a temporary state for your WordPress site. It shows a message to visitors indicating that the site is undergoing updates or changes. This keeps users informed, rather than leaving them with a broken page.
When you enter maintenance mode, WordPress creates a file called .maintenance. This file signals that updates are happening. Visitors will see a short message like “Briefly unavailable for scheduled maintenance.”
It’s meant to be a simple and clear communication tool. Ideally, the site should exit maintenance mode automatically after updates are done.
When Does WordPress Site Enter Maintenance Mode?
If you see the maintenance message for too long, it likely means something went wrong. It’s essential to keep your site running smoothly and troubleshoot if issues arise.
There are several reasons why your website could enter a maintenance mode. Here are common reasons why this happens:
- Plugin, theme, or WordPress updates can fail due to unstable internet, server timeouts, or power outages. If an update fails, a temporary file named .maintenance is left behind, indicating the incomplete process.
- Incompatible plugins or themes can cause issues, leading to maintenance mode. Conflicts may arise during installation or updates.
- Insufficient server resources can hinder updates, especially on shared hosting plans. Checking server error logs may reveal resource limitations.
How to Fix a WordPress Site Stuck in Maintenance Mode?
If your WordPress site is stuck in maintenance mode, you can take specific steps to resolve the issue. These steps involve checking files, updating plugins and themes, and ensuring your server has enough resources.
Method 1: Delete the .maintenance File
First, connect to your server via FTP or cPanel. Look for a file named .maintenance in the root directory of your WordPress installation. This file is created during updates and can cause your site to remain in maintenance mode if not removed.
Access your site using an FTP client like FileZilla or your hosting control panel.
Next, locate the file. To do so, navigate to the root folder, usually called public_html.
Once you find the .maintenance file, right-click on it and choose ‘Delete.’
After deleting the file, reload your site. If everything is functioning normally, the maintenance mode should end.
Method 2: Disable Plugins
If your WordPress site is stuck in maintenance mode due to a plugin conflict, disabling plugins can help resolve the issue.
To do this, connect to your website using an FTP client or File Manager in your hosting control panel.
Go to wp-content/plugins and rename the ‘plugins’ folder (e.g., change it to ‘plugins-disabled’) This will deactivate all plugins at once. If your site starts working, the issue is caused by one of the plugins.
To identify the problematic plugin, rename the plugins-disabled folder back to plugins, then rename individual plugin folders one by one until the issue is resolved. Once you find the faulty plugin, consider updating, replacing, or removing it.
Method 3: Increase Server Resources
Server resource limits (low PHP memory, execution time, etc.) can cause timeouts, leading to incomplete updates, which in turn leaves the .maintenance file behind.
Ask your hosting provider about your resource limits. They can inform you if you need to upgrade your plan.
Alternatively, use tools like New Relic or your hosting dashboard to track CPU and memory usage.
Consider optimizing your site. Reduce the number of plugins and implement caching solutions to improve performance.
By ensuring sufficient server resources, you minimize the risk of getting stuck in maintenance mode during updates.
Method 4: Seek Professional Assistance
If you’re unable to fix the maintenance mode issue on your own, seeking expert help can be a smart choice. Professional developers and support services can quickly identify and resolve the problem.
When hiring a developer, look for someone with experience in WordPress troubleshooting. Check their portfolio and read reviews from previous clients.
Consider platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to find qualified developers.
When you connect with a developer, provide them with specific details about the issue. This includes any error messages and what steps you have already tried.
Transparent communication will help them resolve the problem faster. Be clear about your budget and timeline to ensure that you both have the same expectations.
Recommended Read: How to Fix WordPress White Screen of Death Issue
Bonus: How to Display Your Site in Maintenance Mode
There are several reasons why you might want to put your website in maintenance mode. If you’re making significant design changes or updating plugins and themes, maintenance mode prevents visitors from seeing a broken or unfinished site.
If you’re experimenting with new features, layouts, or custom code, you may not want users to experience potential glitches. Additionally, if your site has vulnerabilities that need immediate attention, putting it in maintenance mode can prevent unauthorized access while you fix issues.
With the Nexter theme, you can easily enable maintenance mode and display a custom message to visitors while you work on your site.
To enable maintenance mode, first install and activate the Nexter theme. Then, from your WordPress dashboard, go to Appearance > Customize.
In the Customizer, navigate to General > Maintenance Mode.
Then toggle on the Enable Maintenance Mode option.
You can also set access rules to specify which user roles, such as admins or editors, can still access the site while it’s in maintenance mode.
Once enabled, visitors will see a maintenance message instead of your regular site content, ensuring a smooth user experience while you make necessary updates.
That’s how easily you can put your site in maintenance mode with Nexter!
How to Prevent WordPress from Getting Stuck in Maintenance Mode?
To prevent your WordPress site from getting stuck in maintenance mode, consider the following:
Choose Reliable Plugins and Themes
Selecting quality plugins and themes is vital. Research plugins with good reviews and active support, limit the number of plugins to reduce conflicts and keep all software updated to their latest versions.
Update Plugins One by One
Avoid bulk updates—update plugins one at a time.
Managed Hosting Services
Using managed WordPress hosting can help keep your site running smoothly. Managed hosting providers offer automatic updates, WordPress support, and performance optimizations, reducing maintenance mode risks.
Taking steps to prevent your WordPress site from getting stuck in maintenance mode can save you time and stress. Implementing regular backups, choosing reliable plugins and themes, and considering managed hosting services are crucial actions you can take.
Stay updated with Helpful WordPress Tips, Insider Insights, and Exclusive Updates – Subscribe now to keep up with Everything Happening on WordPress!
Wrapping Up
A WordPress site stuck in maintenance mode can be frustrating, but fixing it is simple. By removing the .maintenance file, checking for incomplete updates, and optimizing server resources, you can get your website back online in minutes.
A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your WordPress site trouble-free. Follow the steps mentioned in the blog to stay proactive and ensure your visitors always have a smooth browsing experience.
If you want a lightweight and fast WordPress theme that minimizes downtime and ensures seamless performance, Nexter is a great choice. With Nexter Theme and Nexter Extension, you get powerful features for security, speed, and customization.
Additionally, Nexter Blocks provides 90+ Gutenberg blocks, such as Advanced Heading, Google Maps, Social Icons, and many more to enhance your site’s functionality.
Also, Nexter’s optimized performance ensures quick loading times, helping you maintain a smooth user experience.
Check out Nexter’s pricing plans to find the best option for your website.
FAQs on WordPress Stuck in Maintenance Mode
Why is WordPress in maintenance mode even after updates?
WordPress may remain in maintenance mode if an update is not completed properly. This often happens if the process is interrupted or if there is an error during the installation of plugins or themes.
What should I do if there’s no maintenance file but my WordPress site is still in maintenance mode?
If there is no maintenance file, you can try clearing your browser cache and refreshing the page. You might also want to disable any caching plugins that could cause this issue.
What steps should I take if Elementor has caused my site to enter maintenance mode?
If Elementor is causing maintenance mode, first check for an incomplete update. Delete the .maintenance file. You may also need to deactivate the Elementor plugin via FTP and reactivate it afterward.
Why can’t I log in to my WordPress site during maintenance mode?
When your site is in maintenance mode, it may prevent you from logging in. This happens because the site temporarily disables access to ensure updates are applied correctly. Deleting the .maintenance file will allow you to log back in.
