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How to Fix WordPress Admin Login Error – ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS

Introduction

A sudden lockout from your WordPress admin panel can feel like being shut out of your own house while holding the keys. Among the most vexing barriers is the infamous ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error. This looping redirection leaves you stranded on the login page, unable to enter your website’s dashboard. Fortunately, this obstacle is neither permanent nor unbeatable.

Understanding the ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS Error

This error occurs when your browser is sent into an endless cycle of redirects. Instead of resolving to the correct page, the server points it elsewhere—over and over again—until the browser gives up. In WordPress, this often manifests on the admin login page, trapping users in a frustrating loop.

Common Causes of the Redirect Loop

Several culprits can trigger this endless cycle:

  • Misconfigured site URL settings: If WordPress and Site URLs differ, the system perpetually loops.
  • Plugin conflicts: Security, caching, or redirection plugins often meddle with login behavior.
  • Corrupt .htaccess file: A damaged configuration file can force improper redirects.
  • SSL/HTTPS misconfiguration: Forcing HTTPS incorrectly may trap the browser.
  • Cache-related problems: Old data in caches—browser, server, or CDN—can recycle faulty instructions.

Preliminary Checks Before Troubleshooting

Before diving deep into the technical layers, perform some quick verifications:

  • Clear browser cache and cookies to eliminate stored redirection rules.
  • Try different browsers or devices to confirm if the issue is universal or localized.

These simple steps occasionally resolve the problem without further intervention.

Correcting WordPress Address (URL) Settings

WordPress depends on precise URL definitions. If these values are incorrect, redirects multiply endlessly.

  • Via wp-admin: If you can briefly access the dashboard, navigate to Settings > General and confirm both “WordPress Address (URL)” and “Site Address (URL)” are identical.
  • Via wp-config.php: If you cannot access wp-admin, open wp-config.php and manually insert:
define('WP_HOME','https://example.com');
define('WP_SITEURL','https://example.com');

Replace the URL with your own domain.

Fixing Plugin Conflicts

Faulty plugins often meddle with login redirections.

  • Disable all plugins by renaming the plugins folder in wp-content.
  • Test login: If access is restored, one of the plugins is responsible.
  • Identify the culprit by renaming plugins one by one until the error reappears.

Regenerating the .htaccess File

A corrupted .htaccess file can send login requests into oblivion.

  1. Access your WordPress root directory.
  2. Rename .htaccess to .htaccess_old.
  3. Attempt login.
  4. If resolved, regenerate a new file by navigating to Settings > Permalinks in wp-admin and clicking Save.

The default WordPress rules should look like this:

# BEGIN WordPress
<IfModule mod_rewrite.c>
RewriteEngine On
RewriteBase /
RewriteRule ^index\.php$ - [L]
RewriteCond %{REQUEST_FILENAME} !-f
RewriteCond %{REQUEST_FILENAME} !-d
RewriteRule . /index.php [L]
</IfModule>
# END WordPress

Resolving SSL and HTTPS Redirection Issues

If your site forces HTTPS incorrectly, it creates circular redirects.

  • Ensure your SSL certificate is properly installed.
  • Update WordPress and Site URLs to https:// in settings or wp-config.php.
  • If using a plugin like Really Simple SSL, deactivate it temporarily to test if it’s misconfigured.

Clearing Server and Browser Cache

Stale cached data may cause repeated redirection.

  • Purge WordPress cache using plugins like W3 Total Cache or WP Rocket.
  • Clear CDN cache (e.g., Cloudflare) if you’re running a content delivery network.
  • Flush hosting-level cache provided by your hosting panel.

Server-Level Configurations to Inspect

At times, server rules supersede WordPress.

  • Check cPanel or Plesk for any redirection rules applied at the hosting level.
  • Review Apache or Nginx configurations for duplicated or conflicting rewrite conditions.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps

When the usual methods fail, dig deeper:

  • Check the options table in your WordPress database for siteurl and home values. Correct them manually via phpMyAdmin if necessary.
  • Examine server error logs for recurring redirect entries that may pinpoint misbehaving plugins or server rules.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Loops

Once fixed, safeguard your website:

  • Maintain plugin hygiene by installing only trusted plugins and keeping them updated.
  • Create regular backups to restore quickly if the error reemerges.
  • Test changes in staging before applying them to your live site.

Conclusion

The ERR_TOO_MANY_REDIRECTS error may feel daunting, but its roots are usually simple misconfigurations. By methodically addressing URL settings, plugins, .htaccess, SSL, and caches, you can reclaim access to your WordPress admin panel. With preventive care—backups, cautious plugin use, and server awareness—you can ensure this redirect maze remains firmly in the past.

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