WordPress websites can break or display glitches occasionally, so why do plugins on WordPress websites stop working?
If a WordPress plugin suddenly stops working, don’t panic — it’s a common issue and usually fixable. Plugins on WordPress websites stop working ,break or misbehave for a number of reasons, ranging from compatibility problems to simple updates gone wrong.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common causes why plugins on WordPress websites stop working:
Plugin Conflicts
- Clashing with another plugin: Some times two plugins try to do the same job in different ways, causing one (or both) to break.
- Not updated regularly: If a plugin hasn’t been maintained, it may not work with newer versions of WordPress or other tools.
- Theme conflict: A plugin might not be compatible with your WordPress theme, especially if the theme is custom or outdated.
Compatibility & Updates
- WordPress version mismatch: After updating WordPress, some plugins may need updates of their own to stay compatible.
- Bugs in plugin updates: Occasionally, an update to a plugin can introduce issues instead of fixing them.
- Custom code issues: If your website has custom features or edits, new plugins (or plugin updates) might not work well with them.
Server & Technical Issues
- Hosting/server problems: Downtime, limits, or misconfigured settings on your server can disrupt plugin functionality.
- File permission errors: WordPress needs permission to update or run plugins properly — if these are incorrect, things can stop working.
- Caching issues: Sometimes it’s just a matter of clearing your site’s cache to see changes or fixes take effect.
Other Risks
- Malicious plugins: Not all plugins are created equal — low-quality or untrusted plugins can break your site or cause security risks.
- Expired domain names: If your domain or hosting expires, everything (including plugins) will stop functioning.
What to do if plugins on WordPress websites stop working: If you’re unsure what’s causing the issue, it’s best to check with your web developer or drop us a message. We can help you identify the culprit and get things running smoothly again.
To prevent plugins on WordPress websites from stopping working, you also need WordPress Care for your website. It’s crucial. Find out about our website care here.
