Error 521 is a common issue. It happens with WordPress and Cloudflare. This error means the web server is down. It means Cloudflare cannot connect to your server. This guide will help you fix Error 521. Follow these steps to make your site work again.
Understanding Error 521
Before fixing Error 521, you need to understand it. The error means Cloudflare is not reaching your server. This can happen due to many reasons. Your server might be offline. It might be blocking Cloudflare requests. Let’s look into the possible causes.
Possible Causes
- Server is offline
- Firewall is blocking Cloudflare
- Incorrect server configuration
- Overloaded server
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Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Error 521
Now, let’s fix Error 521. Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Check Your Server Status
Your server might be down. First, check if your server is online. You can do this by visiting your hosting provider’s dashboard. If the server is down, contact your hosting provider. They will help you get it back online.
Step 2: Whitelist Cloudflare Ips
Sometimes, the firewall blocks Cloudflare. You need to whitelist Cloudflare IPs. This will allow Cloudflare to access your server.
Here is a list of Cloudflare IPs:
| IPv4 | IPv6 |
|---|---|
| 173.245.48.0/20 | 2400:cb00::/32 |
| 103.21.244.0/22 | 2606:4700::/32 |
| 103.22.200.0/22 | 2803:f800::/32 |
| 103.31.4.0/22 | 2405:b500::/32 |
Add these IPs to your firewall. This will whitelist Cloudflare.
Step 3: Disable .htaccess Rules
Sometimes, .htaccess rules block Cloudflare. Disable these rules to fix Error 521. Follow these steps:
- Access your website’s root directory
- Find the .htaccess file
- Rename it to .htaccess_old
This will disable the .htaccess rules. Check if the error is fixed.
Step 4: Check Server Configuration
Incorrect server configuration can cause Error 521. Check your server settings. Make sure everything is configured correctly. You can contact your hosting provider for help. They will assist you with the configuration.
Step 5: Reduce Server Load
Overloaded servers can cause Error 521. Reduce the load on your server. You can do this by optimizing your website. Use caching plugins like WP Super Cache or W3 Total Cache. These plugins will help reduce server load.
Step 6: Restart Your Server
Sometimes, a simple restart can fix the issue. Restart your server to see if the error is resolved. You can do this from your hosting provider’s dashboard.
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Preventing Error 521 in the Future
Now that you have fixed Error 521, let’s prevent it from happening again. Follow these tips to keep your website running smoothly.
Tip 1: Monitor Your Server
Keep an eye on your server status. Use monitoring tools like UptimeRobot or Pingdom. These tools will notify you if your server goes down.
Tip 2: Optimize Your Website
Optimize your website to reduce server load. Use caching plugins and optimize images. This will help keep your server running smoothly.
Tip 3: Keep Software Updated
Keep your WordPress and plugins updated. This ensures your website runs smoothly. Updates often fix bugs and improve performance.
Tip 4: Use A Good Hosting Provider
Choose a reliable hosting provider. A good hosting provider ensures your server stays online. They also provide good customer support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Error 521 In WordPress?
Error 521 means your server is offline or unreachable by Cloudflare.
Why Does Error 521 Occur?
It occurs when Cloudflare cannot connect to your web server.
How Can I Fix Error 521?
Check server status, firewall settings, and ensure your server accepts traffic from Cloudflare IPs.
Does Cloudflare Cause Error 521?
No, it’s usually due to issues on your web server.
Conclusion
Error 521 can be frustrating. But, with these steps, you can fix it easily. Check your server status. Whitelist Cloudflare IPs. Disable .htaccess rules. Check server configuration. Reduce server load. Restart your server. Follow these tips to prevent Error 521 in the future. Keep your website running smoothly with these simple steps.
