How to Resolve White Page Error After Upgrading PHP from 7.4 to 8.1 in WordPress

If you’re encountering a white page issue after upgrading PHP from version 7.4 to 8.1 in WordPress, follow these steps to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

Debugging and Identifying the Issue

Check Error Logs: Review your error logs for any specific error messages. You can find these logs in your server’s error log files or enable debugging in WordPress by adding the following lines to your wp-config.php file:

php code

define( 'WP_DEBUG', true );
define( 'WP_DEBUG_LOG', true );

This will create a debug.log file in your wp-content directory.

2. PHP Compatibility: Ensure that all your plugins and themes are compatible with PHP 8.1. Some older plugins or themes might not be compatible, causing the white page.

Addressing Site Health Issues

Site Health Check: The provided code snippet seems to include Site Health checks. Confirm if the Site Health feature is causing the issue.
Update Plugins and Themes: Update all your plugins and themes to their latest versions. Developers often release updates to ensure compatibility with the latest PHP versions.

Troubleshooting HTTPS Update

HTTPS Update Issues: If you’re also facing issues with HTTPS after the PHP update, consider addressing them separately. Ensure your SSL certificate is valid and up-to-date.
Check HTTPS Support: Confirm that your hosting environment supports HTTPS. Some servers may require additional configuration for HTTPS to work correctly.

Additional Steps

Temporary Rollback: If the issue persists, consider temporarily rolling back to PHP 7.4 to regain website functionality. This will provide time to investigate and address compatibility issues.
Contact Hosting Support: Reach out to your hosting provider’s support for assistance. They can provide insights into server configurations and potential compatibility issues.

Conclusion

Upgrading PHP versions can sometimes lead to compatibility issues with plugins, themes, or specific features like Site Health. By systematically debugging and addressing potential problem areas, you can resolve the white page error and ensure a smooth transition to PHP 8.1.

For more detailed information and guidance on resolving PHP upgrade issues, refer to the WordPress Documentation on Site Health and PHP Compatibility.

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