500 errors are usually caused by PHP incompatibility (a plugin, theme, or script is not compatible with the current PHP version or PHP extensions), an incorrect PHP version or extensions, or a PHP script malfunction. The error message is vague; often, these errors are not related to the web server.
Applies To:
This guide applies to Web Hosting, Semi Dedicated Hosting, Reseller Hosting, and managed servers.
Error Message
The exact error might be different on your website:
"Error code: 500 Internal Server Error
The site could be temporarily unavailable or too busy. Try again in a few moments."
Or,
"yourdomain.com is currently unable to handle this request.
HTTP ERROR 500"
Solution 01: Change PHP Version
Change the PHP version to an older or more recent one. Do not miss any steps:
How to change the PHP version
If the issue persists, change to a different version and check again. Repeat the process for all available PHP versions until the issue no longer occurs.
If changing the PHP version does not solve the error, proceed to the next solution.
Solution 02: Inspect Error Log
Check whether a plugin, theme, or script is causing the error by reviewing the PHP Error Log:
How to view PHP errors
Disable or update the offending plugin, theme, or PHP script to their publicly available latest stable versions downloaded from their original sources.
If that does not solve the error, contact the devs of the offending plugin, theme, or PHP script for support.
