How to Fix Database Errors & Crashes After Hosting Migrations
⚠️ Technical Alert
Symptoms Checklist
If you observe any of the following symptoms, your site or setup is affected by this issue:
- Browser showing: 'Error connecting to database' or '500 Internal Server Error'
- White Screen of Death (empty blank page) when opening your URL
- Site showing standard hosting placeholder index page instead of your files
- Error: 'The page isn't redirecting properly' loops
Why This Happens
Websites break after migration when configurations don't match the target server environment. Database settings, directory paths, or PHP compatibility issues cause server scripts to fail.
Common Underlying Causes
- Incorrect db credentials: The database name, user, password, or host settings in configuration files don't match the new host.
- PHP Version Mismatches: The new server runs PHP 8.2 but the site uses plugins compatible only with PHP 7.4.
- Incorrect File Permissions: Folders set to incorrect numbers (e.g. 777 or 644) causing server blocks.
DIY Quick Fix Steps
Here is what you can check or execute immediately to troubleshoot the issue:
- Check db settings: Open wp-config.php and verify DB_NAME, DB_USER, DB_PASSWORD, and DB_HOST.
- Enable WP Debug: Set 'define( 'WP_DEBUG', true );' in wp-config.php to display exact PHP errors.
- Check database user permissions: In cPanel, ensure the database user is assigned to the database with 'All Privileges' selected.
- Verify PHP limits: Increase memory_limit to 256M in php.ini.
⚠️ Caution: Changing DNS, server logs, or WordPress databases incorrectly can cause site downtime. If you're not comfortable, skip these steps and hire assistance.
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