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How to Fix “Missing a Temporary Folder” Error in WordPress

Nowadays, WordPress is the most commonly used platform for websites in the world. It’s the backbone of the modern internet and websites. Without WordPress, you wouldn’t be able to read most of the content. But WordPress can sometimes be overwhelming, and you will likely encounter errors while installing and using it. One of the most annoying errors you may face is the “missing a temporary folder” error.

In this guide we will go over what this error means, why it happens, and how you can resolve it to get back to smoothly running your website.

Let’s go over what this error means, why it happens, and how you can resolve it to get back to smoothly running your site.

What is the “missing a temporary folder” error in WordPress?

When this error occurs, it’s usually an indication that your WordPress website is struggling with a specific PHP setting. Specifically, this setting points to a temporary folder used by applications, including WordPress, for temporarily holding data.

The “missing a temporary folder” error message is shown of a image in the Media Library page as a result of a failed upload.

What is the “missing a temporary folder” error in WordPress

Why Does This Error Occurs?

The “Missing a Temporary Folder” error in WordPress typically occurs due to incorrect server configurations.The root of the issue lies within your server’s PHP configuration. If it hasn’t been set up to specify this temporary folder, WordPress will find itself at a standstill, unable to proceed with its usual operations. This issue can prevent you from uploading images, updating themes and plugins, or even updating WordPress itself.

Fixing the “Missing Temporary Folder” Error in WordPress

To revise, this error occurs due to some of the inadequate settings in your PHP file, where these temporary folders are located. It is possible that these directors hadn’t been set before. Another possibility is that the CMS has no permission to access these files.
Be sure to backup the wp-config.php file before making any changes to avoid data losses. Whenever you fiddle with the files for your website, it’s always necessary to have an immediate backup so that you can restore if something goes wrong.

Step-1: Access the File Manager

First, you will need to access your website using an FTP client or the file manager found in the cPanel dashboard of your web hosting account.

Access the File Manager

Step-2: Edit wp-config.php

You need to locate the wp-config.php file and edit it.you can find the file in the public_html directory.

Edit wp-config.php
Edit wp-config.php-1

Step-3: Add Temporary Directory Path

Open the wp-config.php file in a common text editor and add the following line of code just before the line that says /* That’s all, stop editing! Happy publishing. */

Add Temporary Directory Path
define('WP_TEMP_DIR', dirname(__FILE__) . '/wp-content/temp/');

Step-4: Save the Changes

At top right corner click on “Save Changes” and save the changes and upload the updated wp-config.php file back to your server.

Save the Changes

Step-5: Create temp Folder

Within the wp-content directory of your WordPress installation, create a new folder named “temp”.

Create temp Folder

Step-6: Check the Permissions

Ensure that the newly created temp directory has been set to the correct permissions. Typically, you want to set the permissions to 755 or 775. The permissions dialog, you’ll typically see three  modes or checkboxes for Read (r), Write (w), and Execute (x) permissions, divided into three groups: user, Group, and world. Set the permissions as follows: – user: Read, Write, Execute (7) – Group: Read, Execute (5) – World: Read, Execute (5)

Check the Permissions

After re-logging into your WordPress site, you would be able to upload images again.

Conclusion

We hope by following these steps mentioned in this tutorial, you will be able to resolve the error “Missing a Temporary Folder” in WordPress. Ensure you back up your wp-config.php file before making any changes and check folder permissions carefully to avoid other issues. 

If problems persist, feel free to contact us,  we will surely provide you the necessary support to fix server-level configurations. Our support team for assistance would be the best course of action. They will help you in setting the appropriate temporary directory path and adjust any server settings that might be causing the error.

Supportfly provides premier WordPress Consulting and management services with 24×7 technical support. Our WordPress project management services begin with a thorough understanding of your project goals, target audience, and desired website functionalities. Our expert team admins are available 24×7 to help you with WordPress hosting and WordPress plugins.