The WordPress debug mode is crucial for troubleshooting issues on your website, especially after adding custom code. Enabling it can help display and log error messages accurately. You can activate the debug mode by modifying PHP variables in the wp-config.php file, such as WP_DEBUG and SCRIPT_DEBUG. Additionally, you can use plugins like WP Debugging or Query Monitor for easier debugging. Best practices include avoiding displaying error messages on the front end, using a WordPress staging area for testing solutions, and enabling maintenance mode when necessary. By following these steps, you can effectively debug and maintain your WordPress website.
The WordPress debug mode is a built-in feature that allows developers to display and log error messages for easier troubleshooting. It is essential for maintaining website functionality, especially after adding custom code that may be causing issues.
In this tutorial, we will explain what WordPress debug is and how to enable it using different methods based on your specific troubleshooting needs.
What is WordPress debug?
WordPress debug is a built-in feature that allows developers to print and list error messages for troubleshooting purposes. It can be activated by setting different PHP global variables like WP_DEBUG and SCRIPT_DEBUG. Additionally, you can debug WordPress by displaying important data like script execution using a plugin.
How to enable WordPress debug with code
- Enable WP_DEBUG: Activating WP_DEBUG is the most basic way to enable debugging in WordPress. It checks for PHP code issues in different website components such as themes and plugins. To use the WP_DEBUG global variable, change its value in the wp-config.php file from FALSE to TRUE.
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Hostinger File Manager can simplify this process by allowing you to edit wp-config.php directly in your web browser. Follow the steps mentioned in the tutorial to make the necessary changes.
- Important: Remember to set WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY and WP_DEBUG_LOG to FALSE when disabling the WordPress debug mode to prevent unnecessary resource consumption.
Enable SCRIPT_DEBUG
By default, WordPress runs minified JavaScript (JS) and CSS core files, hiding non-essential features like error messages. To debug core JS and CSS files, enable the dev versions using the SCRIPT_DEBUG variable. Follow the steps mentioned in the tutorial to enable SCRIPT_DEBUG using Hostinger File Manager.
Enable PHP error log
PHP has a built-in error_log() function to log scripting language issues. This feature operates at the server level and can debug all PHP applications in your hosting environment. Follow the tutorial to enable PHP logging via Hostinger hPanel.
Enable WPDB error reporting
To debug your WordPress database, enable the wpdb class’ show_errors variable. This setting prints SQL errors on your website, aiding in troubleshooting database connection and syntax errors. Follow the tutorial to enable WPDB error reporting via Hostinger File Manager.
Conclusion
The WordPress debug mode is a useful tool for developers to troubleshoot website issues efficiently. Enabling and using the debug mode correctly can help in identifying and fixing errors promptly. Remember to follow best practices like avoiding displaying error messages, using staging areas for testing, and enabling maintenance mode while debugging.
For more detailed information, including FAQs about WordPress debug, refer to the complete tutorial. And feel free to reach out to the author, Aris, for more technical insights and guidance on Linux and WordPress development via LinkedIn.
