How to Fix Website Misconfiguration Error in Account Manager

Running into a "Misconfiguration Error" can be frustrating, but it’s often caused by something fixable—like missing files, malware, or a recent update. Try scanning for threats, restoring a backup, or reviewing your site’s core files. And remember, you’re not alone—our support team is here to help you get things back on track.

• Common Causes of Misconfiguration Error Message
• How to Fix Misconfiguration Error Message
• Summary

Common Causes of Fix Misconfiguration Error Message

Several things can cause you to see a "Misconfiguration Error" on your WordPress account.

• Malware or suspicious files
• Missing or corrupted core website files
• Recent changes to themes, plugins, or settings
• Accidental deletion of important files

How to Fix Misconfiguration Error Message

• Scan for Malware or Suspicious Files
• Restore from a Recent Backup
• Check Core Website Files (WordPress Sites)
• Review Recent Changes
• Contact Support

Scan for Malware or Suspicious Files

Malware or unauthorized changes can corrupt your site's structure.

• Use a malware scanner. Bluehost offers SiteLock Lite: Free Scan, which searches for malware by scanning your website's sitemap for infections. It's a free introductory offering for new Bluehost hosting plans.
• Look for files that don't belong or were recently modified without your knowledge.

If you find any malicious files, remove them or contact support for cleanup help.

Restore from a Recent Backup

If your website worked correctly in the past, restoring from a backup is often the fastest fix.

• Check your hosting dashboard or backup plugin for recent backups.
  • Bluehost - Paid Restore Service—If you want our experts to restore your data, you can request a paid restoration.
  • How to Restore a WordPress Site—If you have a ZIP file containing the WordPress database backup, you can use it to recover lost content from a WordPress website.
  • Jetpack Backup and Restore—If you have Jetpack in your account, you can restore or download a backup of your website from a specific point in time.
  • Restoring Backups with CodeGuard—If you have CodeGuard in your account, you can use this service to restore your website. 
• Restore your site to a point before the issue occurs.

Check Core Website Files (WordPress Sites)

If you're using WordPress, make sure the following files are present in your website's root directory:

• wp-config.php
• index.php
• .htaccess

If any of these files are missing or corrupted:

• Download a fresh copy of WordPress from wordpress.org.
• Upload only the core files (excluding the wp-content folder) and wp-config.php to preserve your content and settings.

For more details on how to address WordPress core files and warnings and troubleshoot and repair these core files, refer to the article: How to Troubleshoot and Repair WordPress Core Files.

Review Recent Changes

Think about anything you changed recently:

• Installed or deleted plugins/themes
• Changed file permissions
• Removed or edited important files or folders

If you made changes before the issue started:

• Undo those changes, if possible.
• Reinstall or re-upload any deleted or altered files. 

Summary

Ran into a “Misconfiguration Error” on your WordPress site? It’s usually something fixable—like a corrupted file, malware, or a recent tweak to your theme or plugins. Start by scanning for malware, restoring a backup, and checking that files like wp-config.php and .htaccess are still in place. If that doesn’t do the trick, undo any recent changes or get in touch with support for help.