A mixed content error happens when your WordPress site loads securely using HTTPS, but some elements like images, stylesheets, or scripts load over an insecure HTTP connection. To fix this, you need to find and update these hardcoded old links to use HTTPS, often by using a redirection plugin or updating your database.

What is a mixed content error and why does it happen in WordPress?

A mixed content error occurs when a web browser blocks parts of a secure webpage because those specific parts are loading over an unencrypted HTTP connection instead of a secure HTTPS connection. Think of your website as a secure bank vault (HTTPS). If you deliver a package inside that vault through an unlocked, open window (HTTP), the security of the whole room is compromised. Web browsers like Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox spot this flaw and protect visitors by blocking the insecure pieces.

When you migrate a WordPress site from HTTP to HTTPS, you change the main address of your website. However, any images you uploaded, links you pasted inside blog posts, or background styles designed by your theme might still contain the old address starting with http:// instead of https://. WordPress does not automatically update every single old text reference hidden inside your database, leading to broken layouts or missing pictures.

How can you identify mixed content errors on your WordPress site?

You can identify mixed content errors by using your web browser’s built-in Developer Tools to inspect the webpage and look for red warning messages pointing to insecure HTTP URLs. Finding these hidden errors does not require advanced coding skills. You just need to know where to look inside your everyday web browser.

Follow these steps to check your site:

1. Open your WordPress website in Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Firefox.
2. Right-click anywhere on the page and select Inspect (or press Ctrl+Shift+I on Windows, or Cmd+Option+I on Mac).
3. Click on the Console tab at the top of the developer panel.
4. Reload the webpage. Look for messages colored in red that mention Mixed Content alongside specific file names or URLs starting with http://.

If you see red text warning you that resources were loaded over HTTPS but requested an insecure HTTP resource, those are the exact files causing your layout or security warning issues.

What are the best methods to fix mixed content errors?

The easiest way to fix mixed content errors in WordPress is to install a trusted SSL plugin that automatically rewrites insecure URLs, though updating your database provides a permanent fix. Depending on your comfort level with technical tasks, you can choose between a quick plugin solution or a thorough database update.

Method 1: Using a Free WordPress Plugin (Quickest)

For beginners who want a quick fix without touching database files, plugins offer a straightforward path. A popular choice is Really Simple SSL.

• Go to your WordPress dashboard and click on Plugins > Add New.
• Search for “Really Simple SSL”, install it, and click Activate.
• The plugin will automatically detect your SSL certificate and redirect all incoming traffic to HTTPS while fixing URLs on the fly.
• Go to the plugin settings and enable any advanced options like mixed content fixer if your layout still looks broken.

Method 2: Updating URLs in the Database (Permanent)

If you prefer not to rely on an extra plugin, you can update your database directly using a search-and-replace tool. This is common for site owners running e-commerce shops or high-traffic blogs in Bangladesh where server speed is vital.

• Install a reputable database plugin like Better Search Replace.
• Navigate to Tools > Better Search Replace in your dashboard.
• In the “Search for” field, type your old web address: http://yourdomain.com.
• In the “Replace with” field, type your new address: https://yourdomain.com.
• Select all of your database tables from the list below.
• Uncheck the box that says “Run as dry run?” once you are confident, and click Run Search/Replace.

What should you check if the error still persists?

If your browser still shows a mixed content warning after using a plugin or search-and-replace tool, the leftover insecure links are usually hiding in custom code files, theme settings, or external widgets. Sometimes, a web designer hardcodes an image URL directly into a PHP template file or a custom CSS stylesheet.

Check these common problem areas:

• Custom CSS and Theme Options: Look inside your theme’s customizer settings or custom CSS boxes for background images linked with http://.
• Widget Areas: Check text widgets or custom HTML widgets in your sidebar or footer that might contain old links or social media badges.
• External Scripts: Ensure tracking codes, Google Fonts, or embedded videos are requested via HTTPS URLs.
• Browser Cache: Clear your browser cache and any caching plugins you use (like LiteSpeed Cache or WP Rocket) because old versions of your pages might still be stored in memory.

Troubleshooting Method	Best For	Skill Level
Really Simple SSL Plugin	Fast implementation and beginner setups	Beginner
Better Search Replace Plugin	Permanent database cleaning	Intermediate
Manual Theme/Code Edit	Fixing hardcoded links in custom templates	Advanced

Related reading

• How to Fix Mixed Content Errors in WordPress After Moving to HTTPS