Website not loading—what should I check?

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Website not loading—what should I check?

Overview

If your website is not loading, the issue is usually caused by DNS, hosting, SSL, or server configuration problems. This guide will help you quickly identify the most common causes.

1. Check if your domain is pointing correctly

Your domain must be connected to your hosting.

What to check:

  • Nameservers are set correctly
  • DNS has fully propagated (can take 24–48 hours)

If DNS is incorrect, your website will not load or may show an old site.

2. Check if your hosting account is active

Make sure:

  • Your hosting service is not suspended or expired
  • Your account is active in the client portal

3. Check your website files

In DirectAdmin File Manager:

  • Go to public_html
  • Make sure your site files are present
  • Ensure there is an index.html or index.php file

If missing, your site may show a blank page or error.

4. Check SSL / HTTPS issues

If your site recently had SSL changes:

  • Try accessing both http:// and https:// versions
  • Ensure SSL is properly installed
  • Fix mixed content issues if HTTPS loads incorrectly

5. Check for server or script errors

Common issues include:

  • Broken WordPress plugins
  • Corrupted .htaccess file
  • PHP errors

If WordPress is used, try disabling plugins via File Manager if needed.

6. Check error messages

Different errors mean different issues:

  • 404 Not Found → missing files or wrong path
  • 500 Internal Server Error → server or script issue
  • DNS error → domain not pointing correctly

7. Clear cache

Sometimes the issue is just cached data:

  • Clear browser cache
  • Clear WordPress caching plugin
  • Try incognito mode

Important Notes

  • After DNS changes, downtime can be temporary
  • Always check both hosting and domain settings
  • Small configuration errors can fully stop a site from loading

Common Issues & Fixes

Site works on mobile but not desktop

  • Clear browser cache
  • Try a different network or device

Website was working yesterday

  • Check for expired hosting or domain
  • Check recent changes (plugins, DNS, SSL)

Blank page

  • Likely PHP or WordPress error
  • Disable plugins or check error logs

Need Help?

If your website is still not loading after checking these steps, our support team can investigate your hosting, DNS, and server logs to quickly identify and fix the issue.

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