Solutions for cURL Error 28: Connection Timed Out Fixes

Key Notes

  • Understand the potential causes of cURL error 28.
  • Follow the preliminary checks before proceeding with fixes.
  • Always verify changes by checking the WordPress health report.

Overcome cURL Error 28: A Comprehensive Guide for WordPress Users

Experiencing cURL error 28? In this guide, we’ll explore its causes and effective solutions that empower WordPress users to navigate this common issue.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix cURL Error 28

Preliminary Checks: Initial Steps to Diagnose cURL Error

Before diving into specific fixes, it’s essential to conduct some preliminary checks to streamline the troubleshooting process:

  • Confirm that your hosting server is running the latest versions of cURL, PHP, and OpenSSL.
  • Attempt to access your site using a different web browser to rule out browser-related issues.

Step 1: Temporarily Disable the WordPress Firewall

Deactivate any WordPress firewall or security plugin you may have enabled. To do this:

  1. Log into your WordPress admin panel.
  2. Navigate to Plugins, locate your firewall or security plugin, and select Deactivate.

After deactivation, check your WordPress health report to see if the cURL error is resolved.

Step 2: Deactivate All WordPress Plugins

Next, assess whether any installed plugins are contributing to this error. Follow these steps:

  1. Log into your WordPress admin area.
  2. Go to Plugins, then click Installed Plugins.
  3. Check the box to select all plugins.
  4. Select Deactivate from the dropdown menu.

Step 3: Modify Your DNS Server Settings

Changing your DNS server to a public one can help resolve connectivity issues. Here’s how:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type ncpa.cpl and hit OK to access Network Connections.
  3. Right-click on your active connection and select Properties.
  4. Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4), then choose Properties.
  5. Click on Use the following DNS server addresses, input 8.8.8.8 for the Preferred and 8.8.4.4 for the Alternate DNS.
  6. Click OK to apply changes.

Step 4: Clear Your Browser Cache

A cluttered cache can affect performance. Here’s how to clear your cache:

  1. Open your browser (using Google Chrome here as an example).
  2. Click the three dots in the upper right corner and select Settings.
  3. Navigate to Privacy and Security, then click Clear browsing data.
  4. Select All time for the time range, ensuring both Cookies and other site data and Cached images and files are checked.
  5. Click Clear data to finish.

Step 5: Verify Your SSL Configuration

To ensure your SSL is correctly configured:

  1. Visit Qualys SSL Labs test.
  2. Input your website URL and click Submit.
  3. Follow the instructions provided to address any SSL issues detected.

Step 6: Check Your Server Limits and cURL Version

Finally, confirm your server configurations:

  1. From the Dashboard, choose Tools.
  2. Click on Site Health and then Info.
  3. Access the Server section to review your limits.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure backups are performed before making significant changes.
  • Regularly update WordPress, themes, and plugins for optimal performance.
  • Consider consulting with your web hosting provider for support on persistent issues.

Summary

This guide covered the essential steps to identify and resolve cURL error 28 in WordPress. By following the outlined procedures, you can restore functionality and improve your site’s performance.

Conclusion

Facing cURL error 28 can be frustrating, but with these practical solutions, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the problem. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help if issues persist!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What causes cURL error 28 in WordPress?

The cURL error 28 usually indicates that a request to the server is taking too long due to factors like slow DNS servers, a firewall blocking requests, or server limitations.

How can I prevent cURL errors in the future?

Regularly updating your plugins, ensuring proper server settings, and maintaining an adequate hosting plan can help prevent cURL errors.