Error logs help identify problems with your website by recording errors generated by scripts, applications, and server processes.
This guide explains how to access and view website error logs in DirectAdmin.
What Are Error Logs?
Error logs contain information about problems occurring on your website.
Common issues recorded in error logs include:
- PHP errors
- Missing files
- Permission problems
- WordPress errors
- Database connection issues
- Application failures
Error logs are often the first place to check when troubleshooting website problems.
Before You Start
Before viewing error logs, make sure:
- You can log into DirectAdmin
- Your website is experiencing an issue you want to investigate
If you have not logged in yet, please see:
- How to Log Into DirectAdmin
Common Website Problems Error Logs Can Help Identify
Error logs can assist with:
- White pages
- Internal Server Errors
- WordPress plugin failures
- Database errors
- Missing images or files
- PHP compatibility issues
How to View Website Error Logs
Step 1 — Log Into DirectAdmin
Open your browser and visit: https://cp.yourdomain.co.za (Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name.)
Enter your hosting username and password.
Step 2 — Open Site Summary / Statistics / Logs
From the DirectAdmin dashboard:
Click: System Info & Files
Then click: Site Summary / Statistics / Logs
Step 3 — Open Error Logs
Click: Error Log for the domain in question
You will now see recent errors generated by your website.
Understanding Common Error Messages
File Not Found
Example: File does not exist
This usually means:
- a file was deleted
- a link is incorrect
- a page does not exist
Permission Denied
Example: Permission denied
This usually indicates:
- incorrect file permissions
- folder access restrictions
PHP Fatal Error
Example: PHP Fatal error
Often caused by:
- outdated plugins
- incompatible PHP versions
- coding errors
Database Connection Errors
Example: Error establishing a database connection
Common causes include:
- incorrect database credentials
- database server issues
- corrupted configuration files
Common WordPress Errors
WordPress websites frequently generate errors relating to:
- plugins
- themes
- PHP versions
- database connections
Checking the error log can often identify the exact problem.
Important Notes
Error Logs Update Automatically
New errors will usually appear automatically as problems occur.
Older Errors May Be Removed
Error logs are not permanent records and may rotate automatically over time.
Not All Problems Generate Errors
Some website issues may not appear in the error log.
Additional troubleshooting may sometimes be required.
Troubleshooting
Error Log Is Empty
Possible reasons include:
- no recent errors
- logging disabled
- issue occurring elsewhere
Website Shows Error 500
Check the error log immediately after reproducing the problem.
Error 500 issues often leave useful information in the logs.
WordPress White Screen
This is commonly caused by:
- plugin conflicts
- theme issues
- PHP errors
The error log may identify the exact cause.
Unsure What an Error Means
Copy the error message and contact HostworX support for assistance.
Providing the exact error message can significantly speed up troubleshooting.
Helpful Tips
Reproduce the Problem First
Before checking logs:
- Open the website.
- Trigger the error.
- Refresh the error log.
This often makes troubleshooting easier.
Check After Website Updates
If problems begin after:
- WordPress updates
- plugin updates
- PHP changes
the error log is usually the best place to start.
Keep a Record of Errors
When contacting support, include:
- the exact error message
- date and time
- page affected
Security Tips
- Do not share sensitive log information publicly
- Keep WordPress updated
- Remove unused plugins
- Monitor website errors regularly
- Keep regular backups
