How to Troubleshoot Website Issues on Bluehost

Experiencing issues with your website? Whether it’s not loading, showing errors, or behaving strangely, this guide will help you troubleshoot website issues on Bluehost step by step. We’ll start with simple checks and move toward more advanced solutions.

• Step 1: Start with Basic Functionality Checks
• Step 2: Bluehost-Specific Troubleshooting
• Step 3: Advanced Troubleshooting Tips
• Quick Checklist
• Summary

Step 1: Start with Basic Functionality Checks

Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies

Browsers store temporary files to speed up loading, but this can cause outdated content or layout problems.

• How to fix it: Go to your browser’s settings and clear cache and cookies. Then reload your site.

Try a Different Browser or Incognito Mode

Sometimes browser extensions or settings interfere with websites.

• What to do: Open your site in a different browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox) or in Incognito/Private mode to see if the issue persists.

Check Your Internet Connection

A slow or unstable connection can make it seem like your site is down.

• Tip: Try loading other websites or switch to mobile data to test your connection.

Verify Domain Resolution

Your domain must point to the correct server to load properly.

• Use tools like:
  • LeafDNS
  • DigWebInterface
     
• Check for: Correct A records and name servers pointing to Bluehost.

Update Your Browser

Outdated browsers may not support modern website features.

• Solution: Make sure your browser is updated to the latest version.

Step 2: Bluehost-Specific Troubleshooting

If your site still isn’t working, check your hosting settings and server environment.

Check DNS and Name Server Settings

Your domain must be connected to Bluehost’s servers, or the A records must be pointing to your Bluehost Hosting IP address.

• Correct name servers:
  • ns1.bluehost.com
  • ns2.bluehost.com
     
• Where to check: Your domain registrar or Bluehost’s Domain Manager.

Review File Permissions

Incorrect permissions can block access to your site’s files.

• Recommended settings:
  • Files: 644
  • Folders: 755
     
• How to check: Use Bluehost’s File Manager or an FTP client.

Review Error Logs

Error logs can help identify what’s going wrong.

• Where to find them: In your Bluehost Account Manager, go to the Overview Panel and click Logs.
   
• Look for: PHP errors, 404s, or permission issues.
   
• Resources:
  • Error Logs
  • PHP Error Logs

Check the .htaccess File

This file controls redirects and access rules.

• Troubleshooting tip: Rename .htaccess to .htaccess_old and reload your site. If it works, the file was likely misconfigured.
   
• To restore: Use a default WordPress .htaccess file or regenerate it via WordPress settings.

Step 3: Advanced Troubleshooting Tips

If basic and Bluehost-specific checks don’t solve the issue, try these deeper diagnostics.

Clear All Caches

Caching can prevent recent changes from appearing.

• Clear:
  • Browser cache
  • WordPress plugin cache (e.g., W3 Total Cache, WP Super Cache)
  • Server-side cache (if enabled)

Plugin and Theme Conflicts (WordPress)

A faulty plugin or theme can break your site.

• Steps:
  1. Disable all plugins.
  2. Switch to a default theme (e.g., Twenty Twenty-Four).
  3. Re-enable plugins one by one to find the culprit.
      
• Tip: Use the Health Check & Managing Themes and Plugin for safe testing.
   
• Resources:
  • How to Disable a Broken WordPress Theme or Plugin Using Database
  • How to Disable/Delete Themes and Plugins in WordPress
  • How to Fix Issues with WordPress Themes and Plugins

Database Connection Errors

If you see Error establishing a database connection, your site can’t connect to the database.

• Check in wp-config.php:
  • Database name
  • Username
  • Password
  • Host (usually localhost)
     
• Fix: Update incorrect credentials.
   
• Resources:
  • How to Repair a Broken Database in Account Manager
  • How to Repair and Optimize a Database in Account Manager
  • How to Troubleshoot a Database Connection Error

Investigate Slow Website Speed

A slow site may appear broken or unresponsive.

• Optimize:
  • Compress images
  • Limit plugins
  • Use a CDN (e.g., Cloudflare)
  • Upgrade hosting if needed
     
• Resources:
  • Causes of a Slow Website
  • Optimize Website with PageSpeed Insights

Email-Related Website Issues

If your site uses email (e.g., contact forms), misconfigured email settings can cause problems.

• Check:
  • MX records
  • SPF/DKIM settings
  • Email client configuration
  • Spam/junk folders

Quick Checklist

Summary

Troubleshooting website issues on Bluehost doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following a structured approach—starting with basic browser and connectivity checks, then moving into Bluehost-specific settings like DNS configuration, file permissions, and error logs—you can quickly identify and resolve most problems. Whether you're dealing with caching issues, plugin conflicts, or database connection errors, this guide empowers you to take control and restore your site’s functionality. If all else fails, Bluehost’s support team is just a click away. With this comprehensive guide to website troubleshooting on Bluehost, you’re well-equipped to keep your site running smoothly.