Plugin Could Not Be Activated Because It Triggered a Fatal Error

The error “Plugin Could Not Be Activated Because It Triggered a Fatal Error” is a common issue in WordPress and typically occurs when something in the plugin code breaks your site or conflicts with your environment (e.g., PHP version, other plugins, themes, etc.).

Here’s how to understand and fix it step-by-step:

Why This wp Error Happens

  1. Incompatible PHP version (e.g., plugin uses PHP 8 features on a PHP 7 server)
  2. Missing or corrupt plugin files
  3. Plugin conflicts with other plugins or your theme
  4. Functions declared multiple times (e.g., duplicate function names)
  5. Using a plugin built for an outdated version of WordPress
  6. Syntax errors in the plugin’s code

How to View the Exact Error

Enable debugging in WordPress by editing wp-config.php:

define( 'WP_DEBUG', true );
define( 'WP_DEBUG_LOG', true );
define( 'WP_DEBUG_DISPLAY', false );

Then, try to activate the plugin again. The error details will be logged in:
/wp-content/debug.log

Plugin Could Not Be Activated Because It Triggered a Fatal Error
Plugin Could Not Be Activated Because It Triggered a Fatal Error

Look for lines like:

Fatal error: Cannot redeclare function_name() in /wp-content/plugins/plugin-name/file.php on line 20

How to Fix the Error

Step-by-step instructions:

  1. Access Your Site via FTP or File Manager
    Go to /wp-content/plugins/ and locate the plugin causing the issue.
  2. Deactivate the Plugin
    • Rename the plugin folder (e.g., from myplugin to myplugin-disabled)
    • This disables it without needing to log in to WP Admin.
  3. Review the Error Log
    Check the /wp-content/debug.log file for the specific line or issue.
  4. Fix Common Issues
    • Update your PHP version (use at least PHP 8.0)
    • Check for duplicate functions or classes in the plugin
    • Re-download the plugin if it’s corrupted
    • Check if the plugin is compatible with your WordPress version
  5. Test on a Staging Site
    Use a staging or test WordPress site to verify the plugin works before going live.

Tip: Always back up your site before installing or activating new plugins.

Would you like help reviewing your error log file or the plugin code directly?

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