Enabling Maintenance Mode for WordPress

When updating, testing, or fixing bugs on your WordPress site, it’s best to enable Maintenance Mode so visitors don’t encounter broken pages or errors. On ruachost.com, you can enable maintenance mode easily using plugins or built‑in options.

Why Use Maintenance Mode?

• Prevents visitors from seeing incomplete updates.

• Provides a professional “Coming Soon” or “Under Maintenance” page.

• Allows administrators to safely test changes.

• Improves user experience during downtime.

Method 1: Using SeedProd Plugin (Recommended)

1. Log in to WordPress with an administrator account.

2. In the dashboard, go to Plugins → Add New.

3. Search for Coming Soon Page & Maintenance Mode by SeedProd.

4. Click Install Now, then Activate.

5. In the dashboard, go to SeedProd → Pages.

6. Click Add New Landing Page → Choose Maintenance Mode.

7. Select a template and customize the page (logo, text, colors, etc.).

8. Click Save, then Publish.

9. Visitors will now see the maintenance page until you disable it.

Method 2: Manual Maintenance Mode

WordPress has a built‑in maintenance mode triggered during updates. You can also enable it manually:

1. Access your WordPress root directory via FTP or hosting file manager.

2. Create a file named .maintenance.

3. Add the following code inside:

   <?php
   $upgrading = time();
   ?>
   

4. Save the file → WordPress will display a “Briefly unavailable for scheduled maintenance” message.

5. To disable maintenance mode, delete the .maintenance file.

Important Notes

• Always disable maintenance mode after finishing updates.

• Use a plugin for a branded, user‑friendly maintenance page.

• Manual mode is best for quick fixes but less customizable.

• Combine with caching plugins to ensure visitors see the latest version after updates.