How Do I Start Maintenance Mode in WordPress?

You can start maintenance mode in WordPress using a plugin or by editing your theme's files.

Using a Plugin:

1. Install a Maintenance Mode Plugin: There are many free and paid plugins available. Some popular options include:

   • Coming Soon & Maintenance Mode: This plugin provides basic maintenance mode features and allows you to customize your maintenance page.
   • WP Maintenance Mode: This plugin offers more advanced features, including scheduled maintenance mode and the ability to create different maintenance pages for different user roles.
   • Maintenance Mode by SeedProd: This plugin allows you to create custom maintenance pages with landing page features and integrates with popular email marketing services.

2. Activate the Plugin: Once installed, activate the plugin from your WordPress dashboard.

3. Configure the Plugin: Access the plugin settings and customize the maintenance page's content, design, and features.

Editing Theme Files:

1. Create a Maintenance File: Create a new file named maintenance.php in your theme's root directory.

2. Add Maintenance Mode Code: Paste the following code into the maintenance.php file:

   <?php
   // Start output buffering
   ob_start();
   
   // Check if the user is logged in
   if (!is_user_logged_in()) {
       // Display the maintenance message
       echo '<h1>Website Under Maintenance</h1>';
       echo '<p>Our website is currently under maintenance. We will be back soon.</p>';
       echo '<p>Please check back later.</p>';
   } else {
       // Display the normal site content for logged-in users
       ob_end_flush();
   }
   ?>

3. Activate the Maintenance Mode: Add the following code to your theme's functions.php file:

   <?php
   // Redirect all non-logged-in users to the maintenance page
   add_action('template_redirect', 'redirect_to_maintenance_page');
   function redirect_to_maintenance_page() {
       if (!is_user_logged_in()) {
           header('Location: /maintenance.php');
           exit;
       }
   }
   ?>

Important Considerations:

• Back up your website: Before making any changes, back up your website to ensure you can restore it if necessary.
• Test your maintenance mode: After setting up maintenance mode, test it by visiting your website as a regular user.
• Inform your users: Let your users know about the maintenance window and what to expect. You can do this through social media, email, or a notice on your website.