In WordPress, the term error log (often written as error_log) refers to a log file that records various types of errors and issues that may occur while the WordPress website is running. These errors can include PHP errors, database errors, and other issues that could affect the functionality of your website. The error log is a useful debugging tool for website administrators and developers because it provides detailed information about what went wrong, making it easier to diagnose and fix problems.
Here are some common types of errors that may be logged in the WordPress error log:
- PHP Errors: These errors can include syntax errors, fatal errors, warnings, and notices generated by the PHP code that runs your WordPress site.
- Database Errors: WordPress interacts with a database to store and retrieve data. Database errors can occur if there are problems with database connections, queries, or data retrieval.
- Plugin and Theme Errors: Errors generated by malfunctioning or incompatible plugins and themes.
- HTTP Errors: These errors can include HTTP status codes like 404 (Not Found) or 500 (Internal Server Error).
- Security-Related Errors: Warnings or errors related to security issues, such as failed login attempts or potential security vulnerabilities.
To view the WordPress error log, you typically need access to the server where your WordPress site is hosted. The location of the error log may vary depending on your server configuration. Common locations include:
- Error Log File: Often, error logs are stored in a file on the server. Common names for error log files include error_log, error.log, or debug.log. You can access this file using SSH or FTP.
- Server Control Panel: Some hosting providers offer control panels with error log viewers, which can be a more user-friendly way to access error log information.
- Debugging Plugins: There are also debugging plugins available for WordPress, like “Query Monitor” and “Debug Bar,” which can help you monitor and analyze errors within the WordPress dashboard.
It’s important to regularly check the error log to identify and resolve issues on your WordPress website, as errors can impact its performance and security. When using debugging tools or plugins, remember to disable them on a live site, as they may reveal sensitive information or slow down your website.