Error 500, also known as “Internal Server Error,” is a common issue in LiteSpeed hosting environments. It indicates that the server encountered an unexpected condition that prevented it from fulfilling the request. While it may seem critical, the causes are usually easy to diagnose and fix.

Common Causes

  1. Incorrect .htaccess rules – Invalid directives or duplicated entries often trigger Error 500.

  2. File and folder permissions – Wrong permissions (e.g., 777) can block execution. Safe defaults: 644 for files, 755 for directories.

  3. PHP errors – Unsupported functions, syntax issues, or memory limits can stop scripts from running.

  4. Exceeded limits – LiteSpeed enforces resource limits (memory, execution time). Exceeding them may trigger the error.

How to Fix

  • Check .htaccess: Rename the file temporarily and reload the site. If the error disappears, review the rules.

  • Review error logs: In cPanel → Metrics → Errors, or via /logs/error.log. They often show the exact cause.

  • Correct permissions: Reset files and directories to standard values (644 / 755).

  • Check PHP settings: Ensure compatibility with the selected PHP version, and increase memory_limit or max_execution_time if needed.

  • Disable plugins/scripts: If you’re using CMSs like WordPress, disable recent plugins to find the conflict.

Conclusion

Error 500 in LiteSpeed hosting usually comes down to configuration issues, permissions, or PHP conflicts. By checking logs, fixing .htaccess, and adjusting server limits, you can resolve it quickly and restore your website’s availability.