Skip to main content

How to Troubleshoot Script Times Out After Five Minutes

A Script Times Out After Five Minutes error occurs when a process or script on your website exceeds the time limit set by the server, causing it to stop. For example, if you run a large import, update, or execute a long-running task in WordPress, it might hit the 5-minute limit, leading to a timeout error. This happens because the server stops scripts that take too long to prevent resource overload.

  • Troubleshoot Script Times Out After Five Minutes
  • Shared vs. Dedicated IP
  • Summary

Troubleshoot Script Times Out After Five Minutes​

  1. Increase PHP Timeout Settings
    On a hosting plan, scripts often have limited execution time (typically 30 seconds to 10 minutes). To fix this issue, increase the PHP execution time :
  2. Log in to your cPanel.
  3. Go to PHP Settings or PHP Configuration.
  4. Find max_execution_time and increase it (e.g., set it to 300 seconds).
  5. Save the settings and re-run the script to check if the error persists. Please refer to How to Edit the PHP INI Settings article for a comprehensive guide.
  6. For WordPress Users
    If you're using WordPress , you can extend script execution time via a plugin or by modifying your configuration file:
  7. Use plugins like WP Max Upload Size or WP Performance Plugin to adjust time limits.
  8. Alternatively, edit the wp-config.php file and add the following line: ``` set_time_limit(300);  // Extends max execution time to 5 minutes

3. **Check Server Logs for Errors**  
If increasing execution time doesn't resolve the issue, check your server logs for specific errors causing the timeout. Look for PHP errors, database connection issues, or excessive memory usage.
4. **For Advanced Users: Adjusting Server-Side Settings**  
If you have root access, you can modify your **php.ini** file to increase execution time: 
1. Locate the **php.ini** file on your server.
2. Add or modify the line: ```
max_execution_time = 300  // Increases script timeout to 5 minutes
  1. Restart the server after making changes.

Shared vs. Dedicated IP​

  • Shared IP : On a shared hosting plan , server resources are shared with other websites, limiting the execution time of scripts (usually 10 minutes). If your script requires more time, you may need to upgrade to a dedicated IP or dedicated hosting.
  • Dedicated IP : A dedicated IP offers more control over server resources. Scripts that require extended execution times, like large imports or long-running tasks, are less likely to time out. However, remember that the script's resource consumption should not overload the server, even with a dedicated IP.

Learn more about the differences between Shared and Dedicated IPs.

Summary​

A script timeout error happens when your script exceeds the server's maximum execution time. To resolve this, you can:

  • Increase the PHP execution time via your hosting control panel.
  • Use plugins or adjust settings in WordPress to extend script limits.
  • Check server logs for issues affecting execution.
  • For advanced users, update server-side settings (like php.ini).

If you're on shared hosting, consider switching to a dedicated IP or hosting plan if your scripts regularly exceed the default time limits.