How to Fix WordPress Redirect Loops

A redirect loop occurs when your WordPress site keeps bouncing between URLs and never loads - your browser will typically show an error like ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS. This is a common issue, especially after enabling HTTPS or changing your site's URL. Here's how to fix it on dotCanada hosting.

Step 1: Clear Your Cache

Before anything else, clear your browser cache and any WordPress caching plugin cache (such as LiteSpeed Cache). What looks like a redirect loop is sometimes just a cached redirect. Also try opening the site in a private/incognito window.

Step 2: Check WordPress and Site URL Settings

Log in to the WordPress admin and go to Settings > General. Make sure both the WordPress Address (URL) and Site Address (URL) are set correctly and consistently - either both using http:// or both using https://. A mismatch here is a frequent culprit.

Step 3: Check Your .htaccess File

Via FTP, open your .htaccess file in the site root and look for conflicting redirect rules. Sometimes multiple redirect directives - for example, both a plugin and a server-level rule - can conflict and create a loop. Try renaming the file to .htaccess_old to test.

Step 4: Check for Plugin Conflicts

SSL and redirect plugins can sometimes create loops when combined with server-level redirects. Disable plugins one at a time to identify the source.

Still stuck in a loop? contact our support team and we'll sort it out.