how to increase WordPress upload size limit

Understanding the WordPress Upload Size Limit

WordPress sites have a default upload size limit, which restricts the file size that can be uploaded through the media uploader in the dashboard. This limit is primarily set by your web hosting server settings. Depending on the hosting provider and the plan you choose, this limit can vary, often setting challenges when uploading large files, like high-resolution images, videos, or expansive plugins and themes.

Reasons to Increase Upload Size Limit

Increasing the WordPress upload size limit can significantly enhance the functionality of a website. It allows web administrators and content creators to upload larger files directly through the dashboard, facilitating better media management and richer content. For photographers, videographers, digital artists, and ecommerce sites with high-resolution product images, increasing this limit is almost essential.

Methods to Increase WordPress Upload Size Limit

1. Edit the PHP.ini File

The php.ini file is a powerful configuration file used by PHP to adjust the behavior of your web applications. Most server settings that affect your WordPress site can be modified here:

• Access your website’s root directory using a File Manager in your web hosting control panel, or connect to your server through FTP.
• Look for the php.ini or php5.ini file. If it doesn’t exist, create a new file named php.ini.
• Open the file and add or edit the following lines:

   upload_max_filesize = 64M
   post_max_size = 64M
   max_execution_time = 300

• Save changes and restart your server (if possible) or wait for a few minutes for changes to take effect.

2. Modify the .htaccess File

If you don’t have access to the php.ini file, you can attempt to change the file upload limit using the .htaccess file located in your WordPress site’s root directory:

• Access your site’s root folder via FTP or file manager.
• Find the .htaccess file and edit it by adding the following lines at the end of the file:

   php_value upload_max_filesize 64M
   php_value post_max_size 64M
   php_value max_execution_time 300

• Save the changes. Note that this method might not work on all hosts.

3. Update the wp-config.php File

Adding a constant to your wp-config.php file can also define the maximum upload limit:

• Locate wp-config.php in your root directory.
• Just before the line that says /* That's all, stop editing! Happy blogging. */, add:

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

• Save and close the file.

4. Utilize WordPress Plugins

For those who prefer not to edit code, WordPress plugins can serve as an alternative. Plugins like ‘WP Maximum Upload File Size’ adjust the settings directly from the admin dashboard:

• Install and activate the plugin.
• Navigate to the settings page of the plugin and set your desired file upload size.

5. Contact Your Hosting Provider

If you’re not comfortable editing configuration files or if your server settings do not allow changes via the methods above, reaching out to your hosting provider can be the best course of action. They can increase the file size limit for you.

Best Practices and Precautions

When increasing the WordPress file upload size, it’s essential to understand the implications. Larger file sizes can impact website loading times and may strain your hosting resources. Always optimize files for the web when possible. Ensure that your hosting plan is suitable for handling the increased load, especially if you expect consistent traffic and heavy file interactions.

Conclusion

Expanding the WordPress upload size limit can drastically improve your site’s media handling capabilities. Whether through direct server file edits, plugins, or support from your hosting provider, elevating this limit enhances your site’s flexibility and capability to host richer, more engaging content.