If you are running a WordPress site and suddenly face the error that your file is too large to upload, do not worry you are not alone. Many beginners and even advanced users face this issue when trying to add heavy images, themes, plugins or videos. The reason is simple: every hosting company sets a maximum upload file size limit by default and it is often too small for real-world needs.
The good news is that increasing this limit is not difficult. In this ultimate guide, we will walk step by step through simple methods like editing WordPress settings, using plugins, updating hosting configurations, and even contacting your hosting provider.
Whether you are a beginner with no technical skills or a developer managing a large site, you will find a method that works for you.
Once you know how to increase maximum upload file size in WordPress, you can manage your content freely without any restrictions. For more insights on startup tech and digital growth explore the Rteetech homepage.
Why Increase Maximum Upload File Size in WordPress?
When you first start a WordPress site, the default upload size may seem fine. But as your website grows, you will quickly realize it is not enough.
Imagine wanting to upload a high-quality image for your portfolio, a detailed product video for your online shop, or a premium theme that is larger than the default limit.
If your upload size is too small, WordPress will block these files, and your work will stop in the middle. That is why knowing how to increase maximum upload file size in WordPress is so important.
A bigger limit gives you more freedom to add professional themes, powerful plugins, HD images, and videos without running into errors. In simple words, the higher upload limit helps your website grow smoothly without restrictions.
How to Check Your Current Upload Limit
Before you change anything, it is smart to first see what your upload limit is right now. WordPress makes this very easy. Just log in to your dashboard, go to Media → Add New, and look below the upload box.
You will see a line that says something like (Maximum upload file size: 8 MB) (or it may show 2 MB, 64 MB, or another number depending on your hosting).
This number tells you the current limit set by your server. By checking this first, you will know exactly how much space you have and whether you really need to increase the maximum upload file size in WordPress for your work. It saves time and helps you pick the right method to fix the problem.
Best Methods to Increase Maximum Upload File Size in WordPress
Here are the most effective methods. You don ot need to use all of them. Just try one that works best for your hosting.
1. Update PHP.ini File
The php.ini file controls server settings. If you have access, you can update it easily.
Add this code:
upload_max_filesize = 256M
post_max_size = 256M
max_execution_time = 300
- upload_max_filesize: sets maximum upload file size
- post_max_size: handles total post size (important for media uploads)
- max_execution_time: prevents timeout while uploading large files
After saving, restart your server.
2. Use .htaccess File
If you are on an Apache server, you can increase the maximum upload file size in WordPress using .htaccess.
Add this code:
php_value upload_max_filesize 256M
php_value post_max_size 256M
php_value max_execution_time 300
php_value max_input_time 300
Save and refresh your WordPress dashboard.
3. Edit wp-config.php File
Another simple way is by editing wp-config.php.
Add this line before /* That’s all, stop editing! Happy publishing. */
@ini_set(‘upload_max_filesize’, ‘256M’);
@ini_set(‘post_max_size’, ‘256M’);
@ini_set(‘max_execution_time’, ‘300’);
This method is safe and works for many users.
4. Contact Your Hosting Provider
If you are on shared hosting, sometimes editing files does not work. In that case:
- Open your hosting support chat
- Ask them: “Can you please increase the maximum upload file size in WordPress to 256MB?”
Most hosts will do it within minutes.
5. Use a WordPress Plugin
If you do not want to edit files, use a plugin like:
- Increase Max Upload Filesize
- WP Maximum Upload File Size
These plugins allow you to set the limit directly from your WordPress dashboard.
6. Use cPanel or Hosting Dashboard
If your host provides cPanel:
- Log in to cPanel
- Find Select PHP Version → PHP Options
- Update values for:
- upload_max_filesize
- post_max_size
- memory_limit
Save changes, and you’re done.
7. Use Nginx Config (Advanced Users)
If your server runs Nginx, you need to update nginx.conf:
client_max_body_size 256M;
Then restart Nginx with:
sudo service nginx restart
Table: Comparison of Methods
| Method | Difficulty | Works on | Recommended for |
| php.ini | Medium | VPS/Dedicated | Advanced users |
| .htaccess | Easy | Apache | Shared hosting |
| wp-config.php | Easy | All servers | Beginners |
| Hosting Support | Very Easy | All servers | Beginners, non-technical |
| Plugin | Very Easy | All servers | Beginners |
| cPanel | Easy | Shared Hosting | Beginners and intermediate |
| Nginx Config | Hard | VPS/Nginx | Developers and advanced users |
Common Mistakes
- Setting upload max filesize larger than post max size
- Forgetting to restart server after changes
- Installing too many plugins just for this issue
- Using very high values (like 1GB) which may crash shared hosting
How Long Does It Take to Fix?
- If using a plugin or hosting support → 5 minutes
- If editing files manually → 10 to15 minutes
- If server level changes needed → 20 minutes
Final Thoughts
Increasing maximum upload file size in WordPress is not as difficult as it looks. Most beginners think they need coding, but in reality, you can fix it with just a few clicks.
If you are on shared hosting, the easiest way is to contact your host or use a plugin. If you are confident with files, then update php.ini or wp-config.php.
Once done, you can upload any theme, plugin, or media file smoothly without errors. Remember: Always choose a value that matches your hosting resources. Do not set it too high. learn more about our SEO for business growth strategies instead of just “Rteetech LCC”
FAQs
How do I increase maximum upload file size in WordPress without coding?
You can use a plugin like WP Maximum Upload File Size.
What is the default upload size in WordPress?
Usually 2MB, 8MB, or 64MB depending on hosting.
Can I increase the maximum upload file size in WordPress using cPanel?
Yes, go to PHP options and change values.
Is there any risk in changing php.ini or wp-config.php?
No major risk, but always backup before editing.
Will increasing upload size affect my website speed?
No, it only affects file upload limits.
What if none of the methods work?
Contact your hosting support, they can fix it.
Can I upload videos directly after increasing size?
But hosting storage may get full, better to use YouTube or Vimeo.
How many MB should I set for upload size?
128MB or 256MB is safe for most sites.
