What Is the Maximum File Size for WordPress Media Library?

What is the maximum file size for WordPress Media Library? This is a common question for website owners trying to upload large images, videos, or other media files. By default, WordPress has a file size limit, which varies depending on your hosting provider. If you run into an upload restriction, there are several ways to increase the limit and ensure smooth media uploads.

Table of Contents

• What Is the Maximum File Size for WordPress Media Library?
• Why WordPress Has an Upload Limit
• How to Check Your Current Upload Limit
• Methods to Increase the Maximum File Size
  • 1. Update php.ini File
  • 2. Modify .htaccess File
  • 3. Adjust wp-config.php
  • 4. Change Settings in cPanel
  • 5. Contact Your Hosting Provider
• Best Practices for Uploading Large Files
• Common Errors and Fixes
• Summary

What Is the Maximum File Size for WordPress Media Library?

The default maximum file size for the WordPress Media Library depends on your hosting provider and server settings. Many shared hosting plans limit uploads to 2MB, 8MB, or 64MB. If you’re trying to upload large images, videos, or documents and receive an error message, you may need to adjust your WordPress or server settings. Some premium hosting providers or managed WordPress hosting services may offer higher limits, such as 256MB or more, depending on the plan.

Why WordPress Has an Upload Limit

WordPress sets a file size limit to prevent excessive resource usage and ensure smooth site performance. The restriction also helps protect against malicious file uploads and server overload. Large files can consume significant server resources, leading to slower website performance or even crashes. However, if you need to upload larger media files, you can increase the limit using one of the following methods.

How to Check Your Current Upload Limit

To find out your current maximum file upload size in WordPress:

1. Go to Media > Add New in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Look for the Maximum upload file size message below the upload box.
3. If you need to increase the limit, follow the methods below.

Methods to Increase the Maximum File Size

1. Update php.ini File

The php.ini file controls PHP settings, including file upload size. To increase the upload limit:

1. Locate your php.ini file (found in the root directory or /etc/php). If you don’t have access to this file, your hosting provider may restrict changes.
2. Edit it and add or modify these lines:

upload_max_filesize = 256M
post_max_size = 256M
max_execution_time = 300

Save the file and restart your server for the changes to take effect. If you’re unsure how to locate or edit this file, contact your hosting provider for assistance.

2. Modify .htaccess File

The .htaccess file controls server settings for Apache-based hosts. To increase file size limits:

php_value upload_max_filesize 256M
php_value post_max_size 256M
php_value max_execution_time 300
php_value max_input_time 300

Note: This method only works if your hosting environment allows overriding PHP settings via .htaccess. If you’re using NGINX or another server type, this method won’t apply.

3. Adjust wp-config.php

If the php.ini and .htaccess methods don’t work, try editing the wp-config.php file:

@ini_set('upload_max_filesize', '256M');
@ini_set('post_max_size', '256M');
@ini_set('max_execution_time', '300');

Add these lines just before the /* That's all, stop editing! Happy blogging. */ comment in the wp-config.php file. This method is useful if you don’t have access to server-level files like php.ini or .htaccess.

4. Change Settings in cPanel

If you use cPanel, you can modify upload limits without editing code:

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. Navigate to Select PHP Version > Options.
3. Increase values for upload_max_filesize and post_max_size.
4. Save changes and test file uploads.

Some hosting providers may also offer a MultiPHP INI Editor in cPanel, which allows you to adjust PHP settings directly.

5. Contact Your Hosting Provider

If none of the above methods work, your hosting provider may have restrictions in place. Contact customer support and request an increase in your file upload limit. Some providers may require you to upgrade to a higher-tier plan for larger upload limits.

Best Practices for Uploading Large Files

• Optimize images before uploading to reduce file size. Use tools like Photoshop, TinyPNG, or WordPress plugins like Smush.
• Use a CDN (Content Delivery Network) for large media files to improve load times and reduce server strain.
• Split large files into smaller parts if possible, especially for videos or documents.
• Avoid unnecessary high-resolution files that slow down your site.
• Use external storage solutions like Cloudinary or Google Cloud Storage for very large files.

Common Errors and Fixes

Summary

What is the maximum file size for WordPress Media Library? It varies based on hosting settings but is typically 2MB to 64MB for shared hosting plans. Frequently, web hosting companies restrict this limit, and you may need to contact their support team or hire a web developer to implement the necessary changes.

If you need to upload larger files, you can increase the limit by editing your php.ini, .htaccess, or wp-config.php file, adjusting settings in cPanel, or contacting your hosting provider. Always follow best practices to ensure your site remains fast and efficient when handling large media files.