Increase Maximum Upload File Size in WordPress

Introduction

One of the most common limitations in WordPress is the maximum upload file size. By default, WordPress has a file upload limit of 2MB, which can be restrictive for users who need to upload larger files such as high-resolution images, videos, or software packages. In this tutorial, we will show you how to increase the maximum upload file size in WordPress to accommodate larger files.

Why Increase the Maximum Upload File Size?

There are several reasons why you might need to increase the maximum upload file size in WordPress:

1. Larger Image Files: If you are a photographer or graphic designer, you may need to upload high-resolution images that exceed the default file size limit.
2. Video Uploads: If you are creating a video-centric website or blog, you may need to upload large video files that exceed the default file size limit.
3. Software Package Uploads: If you are developing a software application or plugin that requires large files to be uploaded, you may need to increase the maximum upload file size.
4. Business Requirements: Some businesses may require larger file uploads for specific projects or applications.

How to Increase the Maximum Upload File Size in WordPress

Increasing the maximum upload file size in WordPress is a relatively straightforward process that requires editing a few settings in your WordPress configuration file. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you do so:

Step 1: Edit the WordPress Configuration File

The first step is to edit the WordPress configuration file, which is typically located at wp-config.php in the root directory of your WordPress installation. You can access this file using an FTP client or a file manager provided by your hosting provider.

Step 2: Add the Upload File Size Limit

In the wp-config.php file, add the following lines of code at the bottom of the file:

<?php
// Increase the maximum upload file size
define('WP_MAX_UPLOAD_SIZE', '64M'); // Set the maximum upload file size to 64MB
?>

Replace 64M with the desired maximum upload file size in megabytes (MB). For example, you can set it to 128M for a maximum upload file size of 128MB.

Step 3: Update the PHP Settings

Next, you need to update the PHP settings to allow larger file uploads. You can do this by adding the following lines of code at the bottom of the wp-config.php file:

<?php
// Update PHP settings for larger file uploads
ini_set('upload_max_filesize', '64M');
ini_set('post_max_size', '64M');
ini_set('max_execution_time', 300); // Set the maximum execution time to 5 minutes
?>

Replace 64M with the desired maximum upload file size in megabytes (MB).

Step 4: Save the Changes

Save the changes to the wp-config.php file and restart your WordPress website.

Step 5: Test the Upload Limit

To test the upload limit, try uploading a file that exceeds the previous maximum upload file size. If the upload is successful, you should be able to upload files of the new maximum size.

Conclusion

Increasing the maximum upload file size in WordPress is a simple process that requires editing a few settings in your WordPress configuration file. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you should be able to increase the maximum upload file size to accommodate larger files. Remember to replace 64M with the desired maximum upload file size in megabytes (MB) and update the PHP settings accordingly.