Resolving the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS Error: A Comprehensive Guide

As a tech enthusiast and a seasoned server technician, I’ve encountered a multitude of website issues during my career. One day, while managing a client’s website, I stumbled upon a particularly perplexing problem: the “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” error. This issue can be frustrating for both webmasters and users alike, as it prevents access to a website altogether. In this post, I will share my journey in diagnosing and resolving this error, ensuring that you can also navigate this common issue seamlessly.

Understanding the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS Error

Before diving into the troubleshooting process, it’s essential to understand what this error signifies. The “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” error typically occurs when a web page experiences an excessive number of redirects, creating a loop that the browser cannot resolve. This loop can often be attributed to misconfigurations in the website’s settings, leading to endless redirections between URLs.

Common Causes of ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS

The error can occur for several reasons, including but not limited to:

• Incorrect URL redirects: These can happen due to improper settings in .htaccess or server configuration files.
• Mixed Content: Redirects can arise if a site is configured to redirect users from HTTP to HTTPS without proper handling.
• Plugin Issues: In WordPress and other CMS platforms, conflicting plugins can create redirect loops.
• Cache Issues: Cached data may cause the browser to follow outdated redirect rules.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Resolve the Error

Step 1: Clear Browser Cache

The first step I took was to clear the browser cache. In many instances, cached data can lead to persistent redirects, even after changes have been made.

• Access the browser settings.
• Look for the privacy or history tab.
• Select the option to clear cached images and files.
• Restart the browser and attempt to access the site again.

Step 2: Check Redirects with Online Tools

I utilized online redirect checkers to identify any problematic redirects. These tools provide insights into the redirect paths being followed, illuminating potential infinite loops.

• Visit a redirect checking tool (e.g., httpstatus.io).
• Input the website URL and analyze the results.

Step 3: Review .htaccess File

A critical step was to review the .htaccess file. This configuration file often holds URL rewrite rules that can contribute to redirect issues.

• Access your site’s root directory via FTP or a file manager.
• Download and back up your current .htaccess file.
• Inspect for any redirect rules that may be misconfigured.
• Comment or remove suspicious lines, then save the file.

Step 4: Check Site URL Settings

For any WordPress sites, I ensured that the site URL and WordPress URL were set correctly in the general settings. A mismatch between these addresses often leads to redirect loops.

• Log in to the WordPress admin dashboard.
• Navigate to Settings > General.
• Verify that the URLs are consistent (both should be either HTTPS or HTTP).
• Save changes if adjustments were necessary.

Step 5: Deactivate Plugins

The next step involved disabling all plugins to determine whether a plugin conflict was causing the issue.

• Log in to the WordPress admin panel.
• Go to Plugins > Installed Plugins.
• Select all plugins and choose “Deactivate” from the bulk actions dropdown.
• Activate each plugin one by one to identify the culprit.

Step 6: Contact Your Hosting Provider

If the error persists after attempting the above steps, it may be time to contact your hosting provider. They can provide further insights and assistance.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Always ensure your website runs on the latest version of your CMS and plugins.
• Check for any recent changes made to your site that might have triggered this error.
• Regularly clean your website and database to remove outdated redirects.

Conclusion

Resolving the “ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS” error can initially seem daunting, but with systematic troubleshooting, it is manageable. By following the steps outlined above, I successfully restored access to the client’s site. Understanding the common causes and employing the right fixes can save you time and frustration in the future. If you encounter this issue, remember that patience and methodical diagnostics will lead you to a solution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error?

This error indicates that a web page is redirecting users too many times, resulting in an infinite loop.

How can I prevent ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS in the future?

Ensure proper configuration of your URL redirects and regularly audit your website settings to avoid issues.

Is there a permanent fix for the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error?

By following the outlined steps and maintaining consistent configurations, you can prevent this error from reoccurring.

For further reading, check out resources on troubleshooting website errors, enhancing website performance, and managing website hosting effectively.