This article explains what WordPress file permissions are and how to fix permission errors that stop your website working properly.
What Are File Permissions?
File permissions control who can read, write, or execute files on your website. Think of them like locks on doors - they decide what actions are allowed on each file and folder.
In WordPress, incorrect permissions can cause:
- Files not uploading
- Plugins not installing
- Themes not updating
- "Permission denied" error messages
- White screens or broken pages
Common Permission Problems
Upload Failures
If you cannot upload images or documents, your uploads folder likely has incorrect permissions. WordPress needs to write new files to this location.
Plugin Installation Issues
When plugins fail to install or update, WordPress cannot write the necessary files to your plugins folder.
Theme Problems
Similar to plugins, themes need proper permissions to install, update, or allow customisation.
Standard WordPress Permissions
WordPress files should use these permission settings:
Folders (directories): 755
- Owner can read, write, and execute
- Group and others can read and execute only
Files: 644
- Owner can read and write
- Group and others can read only
wp-config.php: 600
- Only owner can read and write
- Most secure setting for this important file
How Web60 Handles Permissions
Web60 automatically sets correct permissions for new WordPress installations. However, permissions can change when:
- You upload files manually
- Plugins modify files
- Updates go wrong
- Your site gets compromised
If you suspect permission problems, contact Web60 support. We can check and fix permissions without you needing technical knowledge.
Warning Signs of Permission Issues
Watch for these symptoms:
- Error messages mentioning "permission denied"
- Files not saving when you edit content
- Unable to upload media files
- Plugins showing installation errors
- White screens or broken pages
Security and Permissions
Proper permissions protect your website. Files that are too open (like 777 permissions) let anyone modify your site. Files that are too restrictive prevent WordPress from functioning.
Never set folders or files to 777 permissions unless temporarily troubleshooting - and change them back immediately.
If you're still stuck with permission errors or need help checking your file permissions, contact Web60 support and we'll sort it out for you.
FAQ
Q: Can I change file permissions myself?
A: Web60 handles file permissions automatically. If you're having permission issues, contact support rather than trying to change them manually, as incorrect permissions can break your site.
Q: Why do file permissions matter for security?
A: Incorrect permissions can let hackers modify your files or let WordPress functions fail. Proper permissions ensure only authorised processes can change your website files.
Q: What causes file permissions to change?
A: Permissions can change during file uploads, plugin installations, WordPress updates, or if your site gets compromised. Some hosting migrations can also affect permissions.
Q: Will fixing permissions delete my content?
A: No, correcting file permissions only changes access rules, not file content. Your pages, posts, and media files remain unchanged.
Q: How do I know if I have permission problems?
A: Common signs include upload failures, plugin installation errors, "permission denied" messages, or inability to save changes to your website content.
Q: Can permission errors cause my site to go down?
A: Yes, severe permission problems can prevent WordPress from loading properly, potentially causing white screens or complete site failures.
Q: Should wp-config.php have different permissions?
A: Yes, wp-config.php should have 600 permissions (more restrictive) because it contains sensitive database information that should be protected from unauthorised access.
Last updated: 1 March 2026