How to increase the WordPress file upload limit

WordPress is a versatile content management system that enables users to create and manage websites effortlessly.

However, one common issue faced by WordPress users is the file upload limit, restricting the size of files that can be uploaded to their websites.

In this article, we will explore various methods to increase the WordPress file upload limit, allowing users to upload larger files and enhance their website's functionality.

Understanding the Default File Upload Limit

By default, WordPress sets a maximum file upload size limit to prevent server overload and security vulnerabilities. The default limit is often set to 2MB or 8MB, which can be quite restrictive, especially when dealing with multimedia content or large files. Fortunately, there are several ways to overcome this limitation.

Method 1: Adjusting Through the WordPress Dashboard

• Login to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to "Settings."
• Click on "Media" to access the media settings page.
• Look for the "Max Upload File Size" option and modify it according to your requirements.
• Note that this option might not be available in all versions of WordPress.

Method 2: Modifying the .htaccess File

The .htaccess file is an essential configuration file for WordPress.

By making changes to this file, you can increase the file upload limit.

Follow these steps:

• Access your website's file system using an FTP client or through the file manager in your hosting control panel.
• Locate the .htaccess file in the root directory of your WordPress installation.
• Open the .htaccess file for editing and add the following lines of code:
  php_value upload_max_filesize 64M
php_value post_max_size 64M

Method 3: Editing the wp-config.php file

• Open the wp-config.php file for editing and add the following line of code just before the line that says
  
  /* That's all, stop editing! Happy blogging. */
  
  then add:
  
  @ini_set( 'upload_max_size' , '64M' );
@ini_set( 'post_max_size', '64M');
  
  
• Adjust the values as per your requirements and save the changes.

Method 4: Modifying the php.ini File

If you can access the php.ini file, you can increase the file upload limit by editing it. However, not all web hosts allow direct access to this file. Here's how to proceed:

• Locate the php.ini file in your hosting environment or contact your hosting provider for assistance.
• Open the php.ini file for editing and search for the following directives:
  
  upload_max_filesize = 64M
post_max_size = 64M
max_execution_time = 300

Adjust the values to your desired upload limit and save the changes.

Method 5: Using Plugins

For those uncomfortable making code changes, numerous WordPress plugins are available to help increase the file upload limit.

Two popular options include "Increase Maximum Upload File Size" and "WP Upload Size".