WordPress is a powerful and flexible content management system that owes much of its popularity to the wide variety of plugins available. With over 60,000 plugins in the official WordPress repository alone, users can customize their websites to do virtually anything. However, with this vast selection comes a common issue—plugin conflicts.
A plugin conflict typically occurs when two or more plugins interfere with each other’s code or clash with your theme or core WordPress files. The result can range from minor layout issues to your entire site crashing. Knowing how to resolve these conflicts is crucial for maintaining a stable and functional website.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you step-by-step through identifying, diagnosing, and resolving plugin conflicts in WordPress.
Also Read: CPM vs. eCPM vs. RPM: What’s the Difference?
What Is a WordPress Plugin Conflict?
Before diving into the resolution, let’s understand what exactly a plugin conflict is.
A plugin conflict happens when the code of one plugin interferes with the code of another plugin, your active theme, or WordPress core itself. This can result in unexpected behavior such as:
White screen of death (WSOD)
Broken site layout
Features not working
Admin panel issues
Error messages
These conflicts are more likely to occur after an update to WordPress, a theme, or a plugin.
Common Causes of Plugin Conflicts
Incompatible or outdated plugins
Poor coding standards
Duplicate functionality between plugins
Conflicts with themes
JavaScript errors
PHP version mismatches
Step-by-Step Guide to Resolve Plugin Conflicts
1. Backup Your Website
Before doing anything, back up your entire site, including files and databases. Use a reliable backup plugin like UpdraftPlus, BlogVault, or your hosting provider’s built-in backup system. This ensures you can restore your site in case anything goes wrong during the troubleshooting process.
2. Identify the Symptoms
Start by documenting the issue:
When did it occur?
What actions were taken before the problem started? (e.g., installing or updating a plugin)
What parts of the site are affected?
If you’re getting an error message, copy it down—it can help pinpoint the source of the issue.
3. Turn On Debug Mode
Enable WordPress debug mode to get more insight into the issue.
Add the following lines to your wp-config.php file (just above the line that says “That’s all, stop editing!”):
This will log errors to a file (wp-content/debug.log) without displaying them on the frontend.
4. Deactivate All Plugins
The most efficient way to check if a plugin conflict is the issue is to deactivate all plugins.
You can do this:
Through the WordPress dashboard by selecting all plugins and choosing “Deactivate”
Via FTP by renaming the
/wp-content/pluginsfolder to something like/plugins-old
Once deactivated, check your website. If the issue disappears, it’s definitely a plugin-related conflict.
5. Reactivate Plugins One by One
Now reactivate each plugin one at a time. After each activation, check your site.
Eventually, the issue will reappear. The plugin you just activated is likely the one causing the conflict—or is conflicting with another plugin.
6. Check for Multiple Plugin Conflicts
Sometimes, it’s not just one plugin but a combination of two or more causing issues.
To confirm:
Activate Plugin A and Plugin B together and see if the conflict reoccurs.
Test other combinations if needed.
Once identified, you can consider disabling one of the conflicting plugins or searching for alternatives.
7. Switch to a Default Theme
Sometimes, the conflict is between a plugin and your active theme. Switch to a default WordPress theme like Twenty Twenty-Four and check if the issue persists.
If the issue is resolved with the default theme, your theme is part of the conflict.
8. Check for JavaScript Errors
Use the browser’s developer tools (right-click > Inspect > Console tab) to check for JavaScript errors. Errors like “Uncaught TypeError” can signal which script or plugin is causing the problem.
This is particularly useful if the conflict is affecting interactive features like sliders or forms.
9. Check for PHP Compatibility
Some plugins require a minimum PHP version. Check your server’s PHP version (from your hosting control panel or a plugin like Site Health Check) and upgrade if needed. Be sure to test this in a staging environment first.
10. Update Everything
Outdated plugins or themes can cause compatibility issues. Update:
WordPress core
All plugins
Your theme
Do this in a staging site or with a reliable backup in place.
11. Reach Out to Plugin Developers
If the conflict persists and involves two essential plugins, consider reaching out to the plugin developers.
Provide:
WordPress version
Plugin versions
A description of the issue
Any error logs from
debug.log
Sometimes developers will offer patches or include compatibility in future updates.
12. Use an Alternative Plugin
If you can’t resolve the conflict and the developers don’t offer a fix, consider using an alternative plugin that provides similar functionality. Always choose plugins with good ratings, regular updates, and active support.
Bonus Tips
Use a staging site for troubleshooting whenever possible. Most managed WordPress hosts offer this feature.
Limit the number of plugins you install. More plugins = higher risk of conflict.
Regularly audit your plugins and remove any that are inactive or unnecessary.
Check plugin compatibility with the latest version of WordPress before updating.
Conclusion
WordPress plugin conflicts can be frustrating, but they’re usually solvable with a methodical approach. By identifying the problem, isolating the conflicting plugin(s), and seeking alternatives or support, you can maintain a smooth, fully-functional WordPress site.
The key is to always test updates, limit your plugin usage, and ensure everything remains compatible. With a solid backup and troubleshooting plan, you’ll be prepared to handle plugin conflicts like a pro.