Repair File and Folder Permissions in WordPress

Have a file or folder permission issue in WordPress? Worry not, friend. It's quite a common and simple solution. It appears when the server cannot read or write certain files, but with some simple fixes, it vanishes.

Here's the step-by-step guide.

What Causes This Error?

First, we will learn why it happens. WordPress requires correct file write and read permissions. If these permissions are not accurate, you can face uploading correctly while uploading images, installing a plugin, or updating themes.

These errors typically display messages such as

• Permission denied.
• Unable to create a directory.
• 403 Forbidden.

But here is some good news. You can solve this easily.

Step 1: Use  File Manager or an FTP Client

First, you should have a file site. You can use an FTP client like FileZilla or approach it through your host's control panel.

After logging in, locate the root directory or public_html of your WordPress installation.

Step 2: Fix Folder Permissions

WordPress directories must have permission of 755.

How to fix it:

• Right-click on any directory
• Check the checkbox to use for all subguidings.
• Click OK.
• This configuration allows WordPress to read folders but not files, to be able to edit them.

Step 3: Set the Right File Permissions

• Files must be set at 644.
• Do the same:
• Right-click any file in a folder.
• Choose File Permissions.
• Enter 644.
• Apply this setting to all files.
• This makes the system run the files but stops unauthorized editing.

Step 4: Refresh and Test

Now go back to your WordPress dashboard. Try uploading a file or updating a plugin.

If it works, you’ve fixed the error!

Still, having issues? Try clearing your browser cache or deactivating plugins to rule out conflicts.

When to Contact Support

If none of these steps work, your hosting provider may have strict server rules. In that case, contact their support team. They can check multiple-level permissions for you.

In many cases, this issue appears together with WordPress Facebook Thumbnail Correction Made Easy  — we’ve written a full guide on that too.

Final Thoughts

Guiding and site of file permissions are used to examine your WordPress website. Yet, when in error, they can hinder useful functionality.

How to rectify it:

• Use 755 for directories.

• Use 644 for files.

• Keep using secure FTP access.

• Contact support if necessary.

By following the above steps, your website will be fine in no time.