Are you struggling to upload large files to your WordPress site? By default, WordPress has a size limit that restricts users from uploading documents or images larger than a certain size. This can be a hindrance when you need to upload high-resolution images, videos, or other large files to your website. Fortunately, there are several ways to increase WordPress’s max upload file size. In this blog post, we will walk you through four methods to help you overcome this limitation and enhance your website’s functionality.
1. Modify php.ini
One of the most crucial files used by PHP, the scripting language behind WordPress, is php.ini. You can change various settings by editing php.ini, including the maximum upload file size.
Here’s how to modify the php.ini file to increase the max upload file size:
a. Access your website’s root directory via an FTP client or a management tool in your hosting control panel.
b. Look for the php.ini file in the root directory. If it doesn’t exist, create a new file with the same name.
c. Open the php.ini file and add the following lines of code:
d. Save the file and close it. Then, restart your web server to apply the changes.
Note: The values mentioned above are just examples. You can increase or decrease them according to your requirements.
2. Edit .htaccess to change the max upload file size VAlues for your website
The .htaccess file is another configuration file used by Apache web servers to manage website settings. You can also use this file to increase the maximum size for uploads to your WordPress website.
Here’s how to edit the .htaccess file:
a. Access your website’s root directory using an FTP client or a File Manager in your hosting control panel.
b. Look for the .htaccess file in the root directory. If it’s not there, create a new file with the same name.
c. Open the .htaccess file and add the following lines of code:
d. Save the file and close it. The changes will take effect immediately.
3. Create or Modify the wp-config.php File
The wp-config.php file contains essential WordPress settings, such as database information and security keys. You can also use this file to increase the max upload file size.
Here’s how to modify the wp-config.php file:
a. Access your website’s root directory using an FTP client or a File Manager in your hosting control panel.
b. Look for the wp-config.php file in the root directory.
c. Open the wp-config.php file and add the following line of code just before the line that says “/* That’s all, stop editing! Happy publishing. */”:
d. Save the file and close it. The changes will take effect immediately.
4. Contact Your Hosting Provider
If the previous methods don’t work or you’re uncomfortable editing configuration files, you can always contact your hosting provider for assistance. They can help you increase the max upload file size for your WordPress site.
Some hosting providers have a PHP-management feature in the control panel, making increasing the upload file max size easy. My hosting provider, Hostinger, has a PHP configuration module under Advanced Settings in hPanel, which I use when updating the max file size.
How to Increase Max File Size in Hostinger – Step By Step
Time Needed : 10 minutes
Follow these simple steps to change the filesize values using Hostinger’s PHP management feature. Other hosts may have similar features, but these instructions are specifically for websites hosted with Hostinger.
Log in to Hostinger
Log in to your Hostinger account and choose the “Websites” tab in the top navigation, then click on your website’s “Manage” button.Locate the PHP Configuration Module
Choose “PHP Configuration” in the “Advanced” section of the left-hand sidebar.Open PHP options
Click on the “PHP Options” tab in the PHP Configuration screen.Change the value for the max upload filesize field
Scroll down to the bottom of the page where the upload max file size field is located (uploadMaxFilesize) and use the dropdown menu to choose one of the pre-configured values. I’ve selected 2048M in the example screenshot, but you can choose a value that works best for you.Save your settings and check the new file size values for your website.
Click the “Save” button at the bottom right of the screen. Allow a few minutes for the changes to be applied to the server and refresh your WordPress admin area. Your max filesize should now reflect the new value you selected. You can check this by going to your Media Library and clicking on “Add New.” The upload screen will show the new max file size.
Log in to your Hostinger account and choose the “Websites” tab in the top navigation, then click on your website’s “Manage” button.
Click on the “PHP Options” tab in the PHP Configuration screen.
Scroll down to the bottom of the page where the upload max file size field is located (uploadMaxFilesize) and use the dropdown menu to choose one of the pre-configured values. I’ve selected 2048M in the example screenshot, but you can choose a value that works best for you.
Click the “Save” button at the bottom right of the screen. Allow a few minutes for the changes to be applied to the server and refresh your WordPress admin area. Your max filesize should now reflect the new value you selected. You can check this by going to your Media Library and clicking on “Add New.” The upload screen will show the new max file size.Conclusion
Being able to upload larger files to your WordPress site is essential for maintaining a visually appealing and functional website. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can easily increase the maximum size for file uploads to your website, and enhance its capabilities. Remember to choose the method that best suits your level of technical expertise, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your hosting provider if you need help or encounter issues.
In summary, you can increase the max upload file size in WordPress by:
- Modifying the php.ini file to increase the upload_max_filesize, post_max_size, memory_limit, and max_execution_time values.
- Editing the .htaccess file to add PHP values for upload_max_filesize, post_max_size, memory_limit, and max_execution_time.
- Creating or modifying the wp-config.php file to define a higher WP_MEMORY_LIMIT value.
- Contacting your hosting provider for assistance with increasing the max upload file size or using a tool provided by your hosting provider. I’ve provided instructions for Hostinger, but other hosts may have tools available in the control panel for your hosting service.
As you experiment with these methods, remember that excessively large files can affect your website’s performance and loading times. Be mindful of the impact on user experience when increasing the max upload file size, and always optimize your files for the web.
Lastly, don’t forget to regularly update your WordPress installation, themes, and plugins to ensure the best performance, security, and compatibility. By staying up to date and following best practices, you can create a more robust and efficient website that meets the needs of your visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does WordPress have a max upload file size limit?
The max upload filesize limit in WordPress is set to prevent server overload and to protect your website from potential performance and security issues. Uploading excessively large files can consume server resources and slow down your website, leading to a poor user experience.
What is the default max upload file size in WordPress?
WordPress’s default max upload filesize generally depends on your hosting provider’s configuration. This limit can be insufficient for uploading high-resolution images, videos, or other large files.
Can increasing WordPress’s max upload file size impact my website’s performance?
Yes, uploading large files can impact your website’s performance and loading times. It’s essential to optimize your files for the web and find a balance between file size and quality. You should also consider using a Content Delivery Network (CDN) to improve loading times for larger files.
How do I check the current max upload file size limit on my WordPress site?
To check the current max upload file size limit, navigate to your WordPress dashboard, and go to Media > Add New. You will see the current max upload file size limit displayed at the bottom of the page.
Which method of increasing the max upload file size is best for my WordPress site?
The best method for increasing the max upload file size depends on your technical expertise and your hosting provider’s configuration. If you’re comfortable editing configuration files, you can try modifying the php.ini, .htaccess, or wp-config.php files. If you’re not confident with these methods or have limited access to your server’s configuration, you can always contact your hosting provider for assistance.
What if none of the methods for increasing the max upload file size work for my WordPress site?
If none of the methods outlined in the blog post work, you should contact your hosting provider for support. They can assist you in increasing the max upload file size or recommend alternative solutions based on your hosting environment.
Can any plugins help me increase the max upload file size in WordPress?
Yes, there are plugins available that can help you increase the max upload file size. However, using a plugin to modify server settings may not always be the best solution, as it can introduce potential compatibility or security issues. It’s recommended to try the manual methods outlined in the blog post or seek assistance from your hosting provider before resorting to using a plugin.
