A PHP error severe enough to stop your site from rendering. Always logged.
Reviewed by Ali Yasin Jatoi · Updated
Fatal errors are usually undefined functions, memory exhaustion, or class not found. The fix is in the error log every time. Modern WordPress sends fatal error emails to the admin address and offers recovery mode.
Related terms
White Screen Of Death (WSOD)
A blank white page where your WordPress site used to be, usually caused by a PHP fatal error.
Debug Mode (WP_DEBUG)
A WordPress setting that logs PHP warnings and errors to /wp-content/debug.log for diagnosis.
Recovery Mode
A safe login link WordPress emails when a fatal error blocks the admin, letting you disable the broken plugin.
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