Thanks to its solid codebase, WordPress issues are rare. Plus, it’s plain when anything does surface to spoil your day. For starters, the 414 Request URI Too Large error makes the actual issue clear. After that, you might try to repair it.
Similar to several other WordPress problems, there are particular actions you may take to fix it. To put it briefly, in order to support longer URLs, you will need to modify a few configuration parameters. When you’re done, the mistake will also be.
We’ll explain how to resolve the 414 Request URI Too Large problem in this article. It will outline the equipment and know-how you’ll need to remedy the issue as well as certain “pre-steps” to take before opening the engine.
So, let’s get right into it!
What is 414 Request URI Too Long Error?
When an action or URL you are asking for is too lengthy for the server to process, you receive a 414 request URI too long error.
Keep in mind that URI and URL are not the same. A resource’s name, location, or both can be found in its URI or uniform resource identifier. Conversely, a Uniform Resource Locator, or URL, can only point to a resource’s location.
Since URL is a component of URI, the words are typically used interchangeably. But let’s examine the causes as both components have the potential to create the 414 error.
What is the Cause of 414 Request URI Too Long Error?
The 414 Request URI Too Long error appears when a server is unable to process a request because the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) provided is too lengthy. Several factors can contribute to this error:
- UTM Parameters: The use of UTM parameters, typically employed for tracking conversions on a WordPress website, can lead to excessively long URLs, triggering the 414 error.
- Redirect Loops: Misconfigurations or settings within WordPress plugins may cause redirect loops, generating numerous redirect requests and resulting in lengthy URLs that exceed server limits.
- Plugin Functionality: Certain plugins, particularly comprehensive WordPress security plugins, may generate lengthy URIs as part of their functionality, potentially leading to the occurrence of the 414 error.
- Developer-Side Issues: In some cases, developer-side issues, such as a POST request being converted into a GET request with extensive query information, can trigger the 414 error.
- Cyber Attacks: Cyber attacks targeting your website server can also induce 414 URI Too Long issues, particularly if they involve manipulating URL parameters to exceed server limitations.
3 Steps to Resolve the 414 Request-URI Too Large Error
Once you have gathered your tools, it’s time to come up with a plan. Fixing the 414 Request-URI Too Large error involves tweaking a server configuration file. Here’s a simple three-step process you can follow:
Step 1: Login to Your Server (and Choose the Type of Server you Want to Use).
To get started, you’ll need to access your server. This is where your SFTP skills will come in handy.
First, determine which type of server you have – Apache or Nginx. If you’re unsure, you can usually identify an Apache server if you find a .htaccess file in the root directory. For Nginx servers, the configuration file is different.
If you need clarification on your server type, you can use methods like domain lookup tools or contact your hosting provider for assistance.
Step 2: Locate and Open the Server Configuration File in Your Text Editor.
For Apache servers, the main configuration file is typically located in the /etc/apache2/apache2.conf directory.
For Nginx servers, it’s usually found in /etc/nginx/nginx.conf.
Once you’ve located the configuration file, open it in a text editor. You may need to download it, make adjustments, and then upload it back to the server.
Step 3: Adjust the Configuration File To Allow for Longer URLs
In the configuration file, locate the relevant settings – LimitRequestLine for Apache servers and large_client_header_buffers for Nginx servers.
For Apache servers, set the LimitRequestLine value to at least 128000, increasing it by multiples of two if needed.
For Nginx servers, adjust the size value in the large_client_header_buffers setting, increasing it as necessary.
Save your changes and upload the modified configuration file back to the server.
Also read: 7 URL Shorteners to Elevate Your SEO Strategy and Enhance User Experience
Final Say
Fixing the 414 Request-URI Too Long error is crucial to ensure a smooth browsing experience on your website. By following the simple actions recapped in this guide, you can effectively address this issue and prevent it from affecting your site’s performance.
Whether you’re dealing with lengthy URLs due to UTM parameters, redirect loops, plugin functionalities, or other factors, understanding how to locate and adjust server configuration files is essential. By identifying your server type, finding the configuration file, and making the necessary adjustments, you can resolve the 414 error and keep your WordPress website running smoothly.
FAQs on 414 Request
How can I determine my server type?
You can usually determine your server type by checking for specific configuration files. For Apache servers, look for a .htaccess file in the root directory. For Nginx servers, the configuration file is typically located in /etc/nginx/nginx.conf.
What adjustments can I make to the server configuration file?
Depending on your server type, you may need to adjust settings such as LimitRequestLine for Apache servers and large_client_header_buffers for Nginx servers. Increasing these values can help accommodate longer URLs and prevent the 414 error.
Can I fix the 414 error without accessing the server configuration file?
In some cases, you may be able to resolve the error by optimizing your website’s structure, reducing the length of URLs, or using URL shortening services. However, accessing and adjusting the server configuration file is often the most effective solution.
How do I know if the error has been resolved?
After making adjustments to the server configuration file, you can test your website to see if the 414 error persists. If the error no longer occurs when accessing long URLs, it indicates that the issue has been successfully resolved.
