The "500 Internal Server Error" is a common issue faced by PrestaShop users. This error can be frustrating as it doesn't pinpoint the exact cause of the problem. However, there are several steps you can take to identify and fix it. In this article, you'll learn how to troubleshoot this error and restore smooth operation to your e-commerce store.
Step 1: Enable Debug Mode
PrestaShop includes a debug mode that can help you identify the source of the error. To activate this mode, open the /config/defines.inc.php file and change define('_PS_MODE_DEV_', false); to define('_PS_MODE_DEV_', true);. This will display more detailed error messages instead of the generic 500 error.
Step 2: Check the .htaccess File
If the issue persists, the next step is to check the .htaccess file. A corrupted .htaccess file can cause a 500 error. You can temporarily rename it (for example, to .htaccess_old) and in the PrestaShop back office, go to Preferences > SEO & URLs and reset the URLs, which will generate a new .htaccess file.
Step 3: Verify File and Folder Permissions
Incorrect file and folder permissions can also cause a 500 error. Make sure that folders are set to 755 and files to 644 permissions. You can make this change using an FTP client.
Step 4: Check for PHP Errors
The error may also be caused by a PHP code issue. Check your server and PrestaShop logs for any error messages that might point to a specific problem in the code or module.
Step 5: Deactivate Modules and Themes
Sometimes, the error can be caused by a conflict between modules or incompatibility with your theme. Try deactivating modules one by one or switching to the default theme to see if the problem is caused by a specific module or theme.
The "500 Internal Server Error" can be caused by a variety of factors, but by systematically debugging and checking the areas mentioned above, you can usually find and resolve the root cause of the problem. It's always a good idea to have a recent backup of your website before making any fixes, so you can easily restore the original state if needed.
