The WordPress Plugin Issue Guide
For WordPress users dealing with broken plugins, white screens, or updates that suddenly break checkout, email, or security. This guide explains why it happens and how to fix it - without needing to be a developer.
See FixesWho this is for
WordPress site owners whose plugins stopped working, email or checkout fails after updates, or the whole site crashes.
Typical problems:
White screen of death
A plugin conflict or PHP error can take your site offline. We'll show how to safely disable plugins via WP-CLI or FTP.
Broken updates
Many issues come from updating WordPress, PHP, or plugins out of sync. We'll explain how to roll back versions and test updates in staging.
Email not sending
Common after plugin or server changes. We'll guide you through setting up SMTP and checking DNS records (SPF, DKIM, DMARC).
Checkout or form errors
WooCommerce and form plugins often conflict after updates. We'll show how to isolate the cause, test in safe mode, and patch issues.
Security conflicts
Running multiple security/firewall plugins together can lock you out. We'll show how to audit and streamline your stack.
1) Common WordPress Plugin Issues
Site crash or white screen
Usually a PHP conflict after an update. Disable the last plugin via FTP or rename the plugins folder to bring the site back online.
Plugin update breaks site
Check PHP version compatibility, roll back with a plugin like WP Rollback, or restore a backup if needed.
Email not working
Install a mail plugin (e.g. WP Mail SMTP), and verify your DNS records (MX, SPF, DKIM, DMARC).
WooCommerce checkout errors
Temporarily disable payment/shipping add-ons one by one to isolate the cause. Many conflicts happen with outdated gateways.
Security/firewall lockouts
If you've lost access, disable security plugins via FTP and reconfigure one at a time.
2) Step-by-step fixes
Update or roll back safely
Use a staging site or maintenance mode. Update plugins one by one. If things break, roll back with WP Rollback or restore a backup.
Check PHP & WordPress version
Many plugins require PHP 7.4+ or WordPress 6.x. Ask your host to update PHP if you're behind.
Check permissions
Make sure the plugin has the right permissions (file permissions 755/644) and your user role can configure it.
Enable SMTP for email
Most email issues aren't WordPress itself - set up SMTP with your provider (Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Zoho, etc.) and test DNS records.
Contact support
If the plugin is from a third-party developer, WordPress.org forums or premium vendor support are your best bet.
Still stuck?
If your WordPress plugins are still broken after trying these fixes, get in touch and we'll help resolve them quickly.
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