How to Check Website Is Down & the Next Action to do

A website going offline can feel stressful, especially if it is your business or project hub. But don’t panic downtime happens, and with the right steps, you can identify the cause and get back online quickly.

1. Confirm the Downtime

• Check from multiple devices/networks: Sometimes the issue is local to your internet provider or browser cache.

• Use a tool like DownForEveryoneOrJustMe or IsItDownRightNow.

2. Identify Possible Causes

Here are some common reasons websites go down:

• Expired Domain Name: Your domain might have expired and needs renewal.

• Hosting Issues: Server overload, maintenance, or suspension due to unpaid invoices.

• DNS Problems: Incorrect or outdated domain name system (DNS) records.

• Website Errors: Code or CMS (like WordPress) errors causing crashes.

• Security Issues: A hack, malware injection, or denial-of-service attack.

3. What You Should Do Next

Step A: Check Your Domain

• Log into your registrar’s portal (e.g., Smartweb).

• Confirm the domain is active and renewed.

Step B: Check Hosting Account

• Log into your hosting cPanel/Plesk.

• See if the hosting service is suspended due to resource limits or unpaid invoices.

• Review server status or contact hosting support.

Step C: Check DNS Records

• Use intoDNS.com to check if your DNS is resolving correctly.

• If you recently updated DNS, allow 24–48 hours for propagation.

Step D: Troubleshoot Your Website

• If you are using WordPress, enable debug mode or check the error_log file.

• Disable new plugins/themes if the error started after an update.

Step E: Security Scan

• Run a malware scan through your host or tools like Sucuri.

• Reset admin passwords if you suspect a hack.

4. Contact Your Hosting Provider

If you have checked the above and the site is still down, open a support ticket with your hosting provider. Provide details:

• Your domain name.

• Error messages/screenshots.

• Steps you have already taken.

This will help the support team resolve it faster.

5. Prevent Future Downtime

• Keep domain and hosting renewals on auto-pay.

• Regularly update WordPress/themes/plugins.

• Take frequent backups (daily/weekly).

• Monitor uptime with tools like UptimeRobot or Site24x7.