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dnsServer•codePHPerrorerroradmin_panel_settingspermissionsfolderfilesystem•labelCommon•check_circleEasy

Could not create directory

WordPress attempts to write a new folder when a plugin, theme, or media file is added. The operation fails when the server blocks the write request. The failure appears as an error message in the admin area.

The block typically originates from file‑system permissions, ownership mismatches, missing disk space, or PHP restrictions. When the target path is not writable, WordPress stops the process and shows the error.

Symptoms

[dashicons-warning]
Installation fails
A red notice appears saying Installation failed: Could not create directory during plugin or theme install.
[dashicons-media-default]
Media upload blocked
You receive an error message when adding images or other media files.
[dashicons-admin-media]
Upload path error
WordPress reports it could not create directory for uploads in the Media Library.

Common Causes

Incorrect permissions
Folders are set to permissions that do not allow write access.
Wrong ownership
Web‑server user does not own the wp‑content/uploads directory.
Invalid upload path
The upload_path setting points to a non‑existent or protected folder.
Insufficient disk space
Hosting account has no free space for new files.
PHP restrictions
open_basedir, safe_mode, or disabled mkdir function blocks directory creation.
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