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How do I troubleshoot a website?

Updated 2026-08-14

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Quick answer

To troubleshoot a website, start by checking for server issues, then inspect the browser console for errors, and finally test on different devices and browsers.

This guide provides steps to effectively troubleshoot website issues, including common problems and solutions.

Steps

  1. 1

    Check Server Status

    Visit a site like 'Down For Everyone Or Just Me' to see if the website is down globally.

  2. 2

    Inspect Browser Console

    Open your browser's developer tools and navigate to the 'Console' tab to look for errors.

  3. 3

    Clear Browser Cache

    Clear your browser's cache and cookies to eliminate issues caused by outdated files.

  4. 4

    Disable Browser Extensions

    Temporarily disable any browser extensions to rule out conflicts that may affect website functionality.

Check Server Status

Use online tools like 'Down For Everyone Or Just Me' to determine if the website is down for all users or just you. If it's down, contact your hosting provider.

Inspect the Browser Console

Open the developer tools in your browser (usually F12 or right-click > Inspect) and check the console for any JavaScript errors or failed network requests.

Test on Different Devices and Browsers

Ensure the issue isn't specific to your device or browser by testing the website on multiple devices and browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari).

Watch out for

  • Some troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the website's platform (e.g., WordPress, Shopify).

FAQ

What should I do if the website is down?

Contact your hosting provider for assistance and check their status page for any ongoing issues.

How can I identify JavaScript errors?

Look for red error messages in the console of your browser's developer tools, which can indicate issues in your site's scripts.

Why does my website look different on mobile?

Ensure your website is responsive and check the CSS media queries that may affect how the site displays on different screen sizes.