Encountering the “The link you followed has expired” error in WordPress can be frustrating, especially when you’re uploading themes, plugins, or files. The good news is, that this issue is usually related to server settings and is easily fixable.

In this guide, we’ll explain what causes the error and how you can resolve it quickly using simple methods.

What Causes the Error?

This error typically occurs due to upload size restrictions or timeout limits on your WordPress hosting server. Common causes include:

• Low PHP limits: The maximum file size or execution time allowed by your server is too low.
• Large themes/plugins: The file size of the theme or plugin exceeds the allowed upload limit.
• Slow server response: Your server times out during the upload process.

How to Fix the Error

Here are 5 effective methods to resolve this issue:

1. Increase PHP Limits via functions.php

You can increase your server limits by adding code to your theme’s functions.php file.

Steps:

1. Go to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Navigate to Appearance > Theme Editor.
3. Find and open the functions.php file.
4. Add the following code:

@ini_set('upload_max_size', '64M');
@ini_set('post_max_size', '64M');
@ini_set('max_execution_time', '300');

5. Save the file.

Tip: Replace 64M and 300 with values suitable for your needs. The higher the numbers, the more upload and execution time you allow.

2. Update .htaccess File

Another way to fix the error is by editing the .htaccess file, which controls server configurations.

Steps:

1. Connect to your website via FTP or cPanel File Manager.
2. Locate the .htaccess file in your website’s root directory.
3. Add the following code at the bottom:

php_value upload_max_filesize 64M
php_value post_max_size 64M
php_value max_execution_time 300
php_value max_input_time 300

4. Save the file and re-upload it.

Important: Make a backup of your .htaccess file before editing.

3. Modify php.ini File

The php.ini file controls PHP configurations on your server. If you have access to it, you can increase the limits directly.

Steps:

1. Access your server via FTP or cPanel if it’s cPanel Hosting.
2. Look for the php.ini file in the root directory. If it’s not there, create one.
3. Add the following lines:

upload_max_filesize = 64M
post_max_size = 64M
max_execution_time = 300

4. Save the changes.

4. Use a Plugin

If you’re not comfortable editing files, you can use a plugin to increase upload limits.

Recommended Plugins:

• Increase Maximum Upload File Size
  This plugin allows you to adjust upload limits from the WordPress dashboard.
  Download here.
• WP Maximum Execution Time Exceeded
  Fix timeout issues without manual configuration.
  Download here.

5. Contact Your Hosting Provider

If none of the above methods work, your hosting provider may have strict limits on your server. Contact their support team and request an increase in:

• Upload Max Size
• Post Max Size
• Max Execution Time

Most hosts are happy to adjust these settings for you.

Additional Tips

• Use a File Compression Tool: Reduce the size of your theme/plugin before uploading.
• Switch to an FTP Client: Use tools like FileZilla to upload large files directly to your server.
• Upgrade Hosting: If your current hosting plan is too restrictive, consider upgrading to a better WordPress hosting provider.

Conclusion

The “The link you followed has expired” error in WordPress is a common issue caused by server upload and timeout limits. By following the steps outlined above, you can quickly fix the error and continue uploading files seamlessly.

If you’re still facing issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to your hosting provider for support. Keeping your WordPress setup optimized ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience.

FAQs

1. Can I fix this error without accessing server files?
Yes, you can use a plugin like Increase Maximum Upload File Size to adjust settings.

2. What is a safe value for PHP limits?
For most websites, a value of 64M for file size and 300 for execution time works well.

3. Will editing these files break my site?
As long as you follow the instructions carefully and back up your files, the risk is minimal.

4. Does this error affect SEO?
No, this error does not directly impact your website’s SEO.

Feel free to bookmark this guide for future reference. Happy WordPressing! 😊