Written by Admin on 2025-05-06

"Downloading Failed: Forbidden WordPress"

As a WordPress user, encountering errors is just a part of your daily routine. Some errors may be minor and can be fixed with a simple solution, while others may be complex and time-consuming to resolve. One of the most common errors that WordPress users encounter is the "download failed: forbidden" error. This error can occur when trying to install or update WordPress plugins or themes. In this article, we will discuss what causes this error and how to fix it.

What causes the "download failed: forbidden" error?

The most common cause of the "download failed: forbidden" error in WordPress is incorrect directory permissions. Permissions are like access controls that determine who can access and edit files or directories. If the permissions are incorrect, it can cause an error when trying to install or update WordPress plugins or themes.

This error can also happen if your web hosting provider has restricted or blocked access to certain files or directories. It can be due to a security measure implemented by the web host to prevent unauthorized access to your WordPress site.

How to fix the "download failed: forbidden" error?

Here are some solutions you can try to fix the "download failed: forbidden" error in WordPress:

1. Check Directory Permissions

The first solution is to check the directory permissions. WordPress files and directories need to have the correct permissions set in order for them to be accessible. You can use an FTP client to check the file permissions, and make sure that all the directories have permission settings of 755 and all files have permission settings of 644.

2. Disable Security Plugins

If you've installed any security plugins on your WordPress site, try disabling them temporarily and see if the "download failed: forbidden" error disappears. Some security plugins may have strict settings that may be blocking access to files or directories.

3. Check with Your Web Hosting Provider

If you have tried the above two solutions and the error still persists, it's best to contact your web hosting provider. Explain to them the error that you're seeing, and they should be able to assist you in resolving the issue. They may be able to detect if the error is due to server-side issues.

Conclusion

The "download failed: forbidden" error can be frustrating for WordPress users, but it's not a complex issue to resolve. The quickest way is to check your directory permissions and disable any security plugins that may be blocking access to files or directories. If you've tried all the solutions and the error still exists, don't hesitate to contact your web hosting provider for further assistance.