How to Troubleshoot Script Times Out After Five Minutes

A Script Times Out After Five Minutes error occurs when a process or script on your website exceeds the time limit set by the server, causing it to stop. For example, if you run a large import, update, or execute a long-running task in WordPress, it might hit the 5-minute limit, leading to a timeout error. This happens because the server stops scripts that take too long to prevent resource overload.

• Troubleshoot Script Times Out After Five Minutes
• Shared vs. Dedicated IP
• Summary

Troubleshoot Script Times Out After Five Minutes

1. Increase PHP Timeout Settings
   On a hosting plan, scripts often have limited execution time (typically 30 seconds to 10 minutes). To fix this issue, increase the PHP execution time:
   1. Log in to your cPanel.
   2. Go to PHP Settings or PHP Configuration.
   3. Find max_execution_time and increase it (e.g., set it to 300 seconds).
   4. Save the settings and re-run the script to check if the error persists.
   Please refer to How to Edit the PHP INI Settings article for a comprehensive guide.
2. For WordPress Users
   If you're using WordPress, you can extend script execution time via a plugin or by modifying your configuration file:
   1. Use plugins like WP Max Upload Size or WP Performance Plugin to adjust time limits.
   2. Alternatively, edit the wp-config.php file and add the following line:

      set_time_limit(300);  // Extends max execution time to 5 minutes

3. Check Server Logs for Errors
   If increasing execution time doesn't resolve the issue, check your server logs for specific errors causing the timeout. Look for PHP errors, database connection issues, or excessive memory usage.
4. For Advanced Users: Adjusting Server-Side Settings
   If you have root access, you can modify your php.ini file to increase execution time:
   1. Locate the php.ini file on your server.
   2. Add or modify the line:

      max_execution_time = 300  // Increases script timeout to 5 minutes

   3. Restart the server after making changes.

Shared vs. Dedicated IP

• Shared IP: On a shared hosting plan, server resources are shared with other websites, limiting the execution time of scripts (usually 10 minutes). If your script requires more time, you may need to upgrade to a dedicated IP or dedicated hosting.
• Dedicated IP: A dedicated IP offers more control over server resources. Scripts that require extended execution times, like large imports or long-running tasks, are less likely to time out. However, remember that the script's resource consumption should not overload the server, even with a dedicated IP.

Learn more about the differences between Shared and Dedicated IPs.

Summary

A script timeout error happens when your script exceeds the server's maximum execution time. To resolve this, you can:

• Increase the PHP execution time via your hosting control panel.
• Use plugins or adjust settings in WordPress to extend script limits.
• Check server logs for issues affecting execution.
• For advanced users, update server-side settings (like php.ini).

If you're on shared hosting, consider switching to a dedicated IP or hosting plan if your scripts regularly exceed the default time limits.