Error 408 Request Timeout is a client-side error code – it indicates that the request the Internet browser has made to the web server takes too much time and the server terminates the connection.
Indeed, this is the reason why WordPress displays 408 Request Timeout.
Although this error message might look frightening, there’s a lot that you can do to fix the problem. Just like other 4xx error messages such as Bad Request, 401 Unauthorized, 405 Method Not Allowed, 406 Not Acceptable, 429 Too Many Requests this one can also be fixed.
In the following paragraphs, you will read about various methods that will have the 408 error message fixed.
How to Fix Error 408 Request Timeout in WordPress
Before you try out any of the suggested methods, it is important to backup your website – by doing so, you protect all your data and files and can safely get back to them in case of issues.
Method 1: Check the URL
By far, this is the simplest and fastest way to fix the problem.
Double-check the URL before you hit Enter and look for typos or any other incorrectly typed symbols and words.
Depending on the server setup, an incorrect URL can trigger the 408 response.
If this doesn’t fix the problem, then proceed with the next suggestion.
Method 2: Check Internet Connection
Sometimes, the Requested Timeout message can be triggered because of slow Internet speed.
See whether you can open different websites and see if the loading speed is normal – if it takes too much time, then there’s a problem with your connection that can prompt WordPress to display the 408 error message.
Method 3: Clear Cache and Reload the Page
Too many cached files can cause poor performance. This is why you should regularly clear your browser cache and refresh the pages you are browsing.
Here’s how to do so:
Google Chrome
Open the browser and search for the three-dot menu on the top right. Once you click it, go to More Tools->Clear Browsing Data. Follow the instructions and make sure you delete cached data as well as cookie files.
Mozilla Firefox
Open the browser and click on the hamburger menu on the top right. Then select Preferences->Privacy & Security and then select Clear Data. Make sure you delete cached files as well as cookies.
Safari
Open the browser and go to History->Clear History and select “All History” and follow the instructions.
Microsoft Edge
Open Edge, click the three dots at the top right, go to Settings->Clear Browsing Data->Choose What to Clear->select Cookies and Cached files.
After you are ready, try opening the website – if you no longer receive the Request Timeout message, then you’ve resolved the issue.
If the message is still on your site, then proceed with the next method.
Method 4: Rollback Recent Changes and Updates
In case you’ve noticed the error message right after some changes you have made in WordPress, then there’s a chance that some of these tweaks have prompted the system to display Request Timeout message.
Should this be the case, it is a good idea to roll back your WordPress setup to an error-free version.
One of the easiest ways to do so is by using a WordPress plugin.
One such is WP Rollback. Once you install and activate the plugin, you will have ample options for reverting changes that will keep your system and files safe.
If this plugin doesn’t fit your needs, then don’t worry. There are plenty of useful ones, and you can select whichever you find useful, depending on your personal requirements.
Method 5: Contact Your Hosting Provider
If nothing else helps, then reach out to your hosting provider and ask them for further help and information.
Usually, they will be glad to help.
This is the case with ZETTAHOST – if you need a reliable provider for your websites, then have a look at our hosting services and benefit from high speed, 99.9% uptime, and experienced 24/7 tech support.
Also, you can have a look at our free hosting plan and try out our services completely for free.
Conclusion
Error 408 Request Timeout is part of the 4xx response code messages, indicating that there are issues with the client side of the communication between clients and servers.
Although annoying, there’s a lot you can do to fix it and provide your website visitors with a rewarding browsing experience.
Related:
- How to Fix WordPress HTTP Error 500
- How to Fix Error 503 Service Unavailable in WordPress
- There Has Been a Critical Error on This Website
- How to Fix Too Many Redirects Error in WordPress
- There Has Been a Critical Error on This Website