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dnsServer•codePHPwebwordpresscloud_offupload errorsettingsserver_configurationmemorymemory_limit•labelCommon•check_circleEasy

The uploaded file exceeds the upload_max_filesize directive

WordPress checks the PHP setting upload_max_filesize before writing a file. If the file size is larger than the value, PHP stops the request and returns an error.

The same check applies to post_max_size and memory_limit. When any of these limits are lower than the file, the upload aborts and WordPress shows the error banner.

Symptoms

[dashicons-warning]
Error banner in Media Library
A red notice appears stating the uploaded file exceeds the upload_max_filesize directive.
[dashicons-no]
Upload fails instantly
The file never starts uploading and no progress bar is shown.
[dashicons-admin-settings]
Maximum upload size displayed lower than file
Media → Add New shows a limit that is smaller than the file you are trying to add.

Common Causes

PHP upload_max_filesize limit
The value set in php.ini or overridden in .htaccess is lower than the file size.
post_max_size limit
The total POST request size exceeds the post_max_size setting, blocking the upload.
Server‑level restriction or wrong PHP handler
Shared‑hosting caps or using CGI with .htaccess php_value directives prevent the limit from being raised.
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