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I can't install the plugin: The link you have followed has expired

Problem

You encounter an error message stating, "The link you have followed has expired," when attempting to install the plugin. This error is usually caused by server settings that prevent WordPress from processing the plugin upload correctly.

 

Cause: Insufficient PHP settings

This message typically appears when one or more of the PHP settings on your server are too restrictive for the plugin installation. In particular, limits related to file uploads, memory usage, or script execution can prevent WordPress from processing the plugin upload correctly.

This is a common server configuration issue and can usually be resolved by increasing the relevant PHP settings.

 

Solution:

There are several ways to resolve this issue.

1. Manually install the plugin

You can bypass the WordPress upload limit by installing the plugin manually.

Install the plugin manually by extracting the contents of the plugin ZIP file and uploading them to the wp-content/plugins folder on your server via FTP.
 

2. Increase the PHP settings yourself

If you have access to your server's PHP configuration, you can try increasing the following values:

memory_limit = 256M
post_max_size = 64M
upload_max_filesize = 64M
max_execution_time = 300
max_input_time = 1000

These settings can usually be changed in your php.ini file. Depending on your hosting environment, you may also be able to change them through your hosting control panel.

After changing the settings, try installing the plugin again.
 

3. Contact your hosting provider

If you don't have access to the PHP settings or are not sure how to change them, contact your hosting provider for assistance. Provide them with a screenshot of the error message and ask them to increase the following PHP settings:

  • memory_limit
  • post_max_size
  • upload_max_filesize
  • max_execution_time
  • max_input_time

Your hosting provider should be able to make these changes for you. Once the settings have been updated, try installing the plugin again.