If your WordPress posts are returning a 404 error, it typically means that something is preventing the server from displaying the correct page. Here’s a step-by-step guide to fix the issue:
1. Check Permalink Settings
Sometimes, the issue is due to incorrect permalink settings.
Go to WordPress Dashboard > Settings > Permalinks.
Without changing anything, click Save Changes. This will reset your permalink structure and can fix 404 errors caused by permalink issues.
2. Flush Rewrite Rules
If the permalink structure is fine, but the issue persists, you might need to flush the rewrite rules manually.
In the WordPress Dashboard, go to Settings > Permalinks, then click Save Changes again. This forces WordPress to regenerate its permalink rules.
Alternatively, you can add the following code to your theme’s functions.php file temporarily to flush the rules:
flush_rewrite_rules();Remember to remove this line after the issue is fixed.
3. Deactivate Plugins
Corrupt or missing .htaccess files can also cause 404 errors.
Find the .htaccess file. If it’s missing, create a new file and add the following default code:
# BEGIN WordPress
RewriteEngine On
RewriteBase /
RewriteRule ^index.php$ – [L]
RewriteCond %{REQUEST_FILENAME} !-f
RewriteCond %{REQUEST_FILENAME} !-d
RewriteRule . /index.php [L]
# END WordPress
If .htaccess is present, try deleting it (after backing it up) and regenerate it by saving the permalinks settings as mentioned in step 1.
4. Deactivate Plugins
Sometimes plugins can conflict with WordPress’s ability to load posts correctly.
Deactivate all your plugins by going to Plugins > Installed Plugins and bulk deactivate them.
Check if the posts are working now.
If they are, reactivate the plugins one by one to identify the culprit.
5. Switch to Default Theme
A theme conflict can also cause 404 errors on posts.
Temporarily switch to a default WordPress theme (like Twenty Twenty-Three).
If the posts load correctly with the default theme, the issue is likely in your theme.
6. Check for Custom Post Types
If you’re using custom post types, the 404 error might occur if their rewrite rules aren’t properly configured.
Check your custom post type registration code (usually found in the functions.php file or a plugin).
Ensure that the rewrite parameter is set correctly.
7. Check File Permissions
Incorrect file permissions can prevent WordPress from displaying content correctly.
Verify that your WordPress files have the correct permissions. For example, files should typically have permissions set to 644, and directories should be set to 755.
8. Clear Caches
If you’re using a caching plugin or your hosting has server-side caching, clear all caches after making changes.
Clear the cache in any caching plugins you use (e.g., WP Super Cache, W3 Total Cache, etc.).
If you have server-side caching or a CDN (like Cloudflare), clear the cache there as well.
9. Check Server Logs
If none of the above steps solve the issue, check your server logs for any error messages that might provide more insight.
You can access error logs via your hosting control panel or ask your hosting provider for assistance.
By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the 404 error and get your posts working again.