How to Fix “The Link You Followed Has Expired” WordPress Error?

When trying to upload files or modify your website, you might sometimes face an error message — “The link you followed has expired.” This often happens when the file size or execution limits set by your server cross a certain point. Session timeouts and workflow interruptions due to this error can be frustrating. But, before fixing the issue, you should take time to understand what the error message indicates and the factors that are causing it.

What Does “The Link You Followed Has Expired” Mean?

Usually, this message appears when you upload a theme, plugin, or media file to the WordPress dashboard that exceeds the server’s size limits. You can think of this as the platform saying, “Hey, the file you’re trying to upload is too big,” or “Hey, the file you’re uploading is taking too long, so we had to stop the process.” The problem with this error is that it is too vague and unhelpful when you try to determine the underlying cause behind it. It does not point out any broken links, an expired process, or other indicators. 

This error is often tied to the server’s PHP configuration file. It means that when the limits set on file upload size, process execution time, or media usage are exceeded, WordPress fails to execute the requested action. Instead, it times out the process and displays the error message on your screens.

Common Causes Behind “The Link You Followed Has Expired”

You may encounter this error message due to various reasons. Sometimes, it may arise when you try to upload a file larger than the upload limit set by the website settings. It may also occur when the website has a low memory limit, short PHP execution time, and restrictive settings. 

Methods to Fix this Error

There are several proven methods that help you prevent this error message from appearing. While there isn’t any one-size-fits-all approach, you can try various strategies to determine what works best for your situation. 

1) Modify .htaccess File 

A common way to bypass the “The link you followed has expired” error message is by increasing the upload limits of your website. Various websites and hosts use the .htaccess file for configuration, which helps you adjust your website’s media storage, upload limit, or execution time. This file helps control various server behaviors and can be found in your WordPress directory. But you must first add certain codes to this file to make the desired changes. That said, certain web hosting platforms may prevent you from using this easy and quick solution. 

2) Make Changes to the php.ini File

Creating and modifying a php.ini file is another option to try. It is the default configuration file used by WordPress, which is clean, server-approved, and helps you make the required changes. Also, it does not need you to make adjustments to the website’s themes. Modifying this file lets users upload larger media to the parent directory and prevents the error message from appearing. 

3) Temporarily Edit functions.php File

This is a quicker and easier way to prevent the “the link you followed has expired” error. It is great if you want to avoid changing the website’s settings and also need a higher limit to upload the current file. This method is best reserved for one-time uploads or for users working within a child theme. 

4) Use cPanel’s Editor

Check if your hosting provider uses the cPanel interface and allows you to use MultiPHP INI editing. This is a user-friendly built-in tool inside the interface that helps you adjust your website’s PHP settings. Even if you are a beginner developer who is hesitant about directly editing your website’s code, this tool helps you learn the basics of PHP configurations.

Tips to Prevent the Error in the Future

Even after solving the underlying cause behind the error, the message can sometimes reappear. To avoid this from happening frequently, consider following these helpful tips:

1) Set Higher PHP Limits

This step helps you upload larger files to your website without overextending the limits set by your server. It also helps you make changes to the website quickly. For example, if your current PHP limit is 100 MB, reset it to 128 MB.

2) Choose Host Carefully

If your current web hosting service doesn’t allow you to modify the PHP settings, opt for an alternative with reasonable upload limits and good server resources to prevent error messages. 

Read more: Best Web Hosting

3) Update PHP Version

Outdated PHP versions have compatibility issues and security risks, which may lead to errors. To prevent this issue and keep your website functioning and manage uploads more efficiently, you should regularly update the PHP file version. 

FAQs

Can this error affect SEO or user experience?

No, this error is only visible to the website owner or may appear on the WordPress dashboard. It does not impact the live website. This means that the visitors on your platform won’t be able to see the error message, nor will it affect your website’s SEO.

Is it safe to increase PHP limits?

Yes. Increasing the PHP limits for the website is safe as long as you choose reasonably higher limits. Most hosting providers allow you to adjust the upper limit of the media storage space or the execution time required. Make sure you opt for values that suit your requirements to avoid running into error messages.

What if I don’t see a php.ini file in my hosting account?

You can create a php.ini file yourself. All you need to do is create a blank file, name it php.ini,  and add the necessary settings before uploading it to your website. 

Will editing functions.php get reset on theme update?

In WordPress, the functions.php is a core file that helps you add custom code to modify your platform’s theme. But when you modify the main theme on your dashboard, you unknowingly erase the file’s changes and overwrite its customization. So, to protect your edits, use a child theme or find another way to create the updates.