How To Fix Status Code 405 Error On Your WordPress Site

Running a WordPress site is typically a smooth process until an error code pops up, and you can’t figure out what it means. One standard error experienced by WordPress users is ‘Status Code 405.’ It occurs when a web server returns an unexpected HTTP method for an incoming request.

The good news? It’s not a complicated error at all, and it’s easy to fix. In this quick guide, I will discuss the 405 error code in detail and how to fix it on your WordPress site.

Let’s get started and have your WordPress site up and running again!

What Does ‘405: Method Not Allowed’ Mean?

Status Code 405 will show up on your website when a user requests a resource via an HTTP method not allowed on the server. This status code is typically triggered by misconfigured server settings that prevent certain HTTP methods from being used.

What are HTTP codes?

Before we get into this error, let’s quickly understand what HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) codes mean. They are responses that websites and servers give to particular requests. HTTP codes have five separate classes, with each class indicating a different category of the response.

Status Code 405 is part of the 4xx client error category. These error codes are triggered by client-side problems, indicating an issue with the client’s request.

Your screen will show ‘405 method not allowed’ if this status code appears on your browser.

Troubleshooting Other 4xx Errors

Before we dive into fixing the Status Code 405 error, you can check out the guides below to understand other 4xx errors.

Here’s an easy guide to error 429: Too Many Requests, and a quick guide on error 499. Error 404 is also common, and we’ve recently published a detailed guide that you can read here.

Understanding these HTTP status code errors can help you diagnose and fix your WordPress site’s issues.

How To Fix Status Code 405 On Your WordPress Site (Seven Ways)

Now that we understand HTTP status codes, let’s focus on fixing status code 405. The solutions below are simple and require little to no technical knowledge.

#1. Check To See If You’ve Input The Correct URL

This solution may seem trivial and obvious to most, but it’s the first thing you should check if you’re experiencing a 405 error code. Check if you’ve input the right URL to access that particular resource.

If the URL has a typo, the server will reject your request, and you’ll get the ‘405 method not allowed’ error .

Ensure that your URL is accurate, and check for typos before anything.

#2. Roll Back Any Recent WordPress Updates

WordPress updates usually add new features, fix bugs, and enhance site performance. But, sometimes, updates result in conflict issues. Consider rolling back the updates if you recently updated WordPress and suddenly received the 405 error code.

Note: Get the WP Rollback plugin if you’re unfamiliar with manual updates.

#3. Uninstall WordPress Plugins, Themes, And Extensions

If you’ve installed new plugins, extensions, or themes on your WordPress site, they may conflict with each other. And you’ll end up with the 405 error code on your site.

The best way to check which WordPress plugin could be the culprit is to disable them one by one. Then, check if the error code disappears. Once you identify the plugin that is the issue, uninstall it.

To disable plugins, go to the settings page on your WordPress dashboard and then click on plugins. Click on “Bulk action’ and select ‘Deactivate All’ from the dropdown menu.

Check out the screenshot below for a visual aid.

Now refresh your site and check if the error message still persists.

#4. Check For Any Unexpected Database Changes

Any unexpected database changes can cause the 405 method not to allow server error. Check that the structure of your database is fine and functioning correctly. If any database changes occur, fix them.

Note: If you’re unsure of how to access your site’s database, contact your web hosting provider for support. Don’t try to change anything in your database if you do not have the technical knowledge to do so. Check out our excellent WordPress hosting plans while you’re here!

#5. Check Your Server Configuration And .htaccess File

The web server configuration and .htaccess file can have errors that prevent some HTTP methods from operating correctly. Ensure that your configurations are set to allow the correct HTTP methods.

Check the .htaccess file (Typically located in the root directory). You can check the web server configuration settings by contacting your web hosting provider to check your server logs.

Even a tiny syntax error in this file will result in your browser showing ‘405 method not allowed’ on the screen.

Check out this detailed tutorial on deleting the .htacccess file for your website.

#6. Fully Restore Your Website From a Backup

If none of the above solutions have worked, restore your website from a backup. Ensure the backup is clean and contains no errors to avoid reintroducing the error.

#7. What if None of These Solutions Work? Contact Your Web Host.

If none of these solutions fix your problem, I advise that you contact your web host providerimmediately. Your provider’s support team will help diagnose and fix error code 405 quickly.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts

Errors on your site can be frustrating, especially if you’re unsure of what to do. However, I hope this guide has given you step-by-step instructions to tackle the 405 status code error.

The abovementioned solutions are practical and easy to follow, regardless of your level of expertise. If rolling back updates, disabling plugins, and checking .htacess files doesn’t work, it’s time to reach out to your web hosting provider.

If you have good WordPress hosting, their support team should have your website up and running quickly.

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