500 Internal Server Error

HTTP 500 - Internal Server Error

I recently encountered a 500 internal server error on one of my weblog is www.addiehf.net, the 500 error is a generic error message that can be displayed for many reasons. So, I thought I would post about it here (though only a screenshot - LOL).

Wikipedia says:

5xx Server Error

The server failed to fulfill an apparently valid request.

Response status codes beginning with the digit "5" indicate cases in which the server is aware that it has encountered an error or is otherwise incapable of performing the request. Except when responding to a HEAD request, the server should include an entity containing an explanation of the error situation, and indicate whether it is a temporary or permanent condition. Likewise, user agents should display any included entity to the user. These response codes are applicable to any request method.

500 Internal Server Error
A generic error message, given when no more specific message is suitable.

How To Fix the 500 Internal Server Error

The 500 Internal Server Error is a server-side error, meaning the problem is not with your computer or Internet connection but instead is a problem with the web site's server.

Even though the issue is not yours to fix, there are some things you can try:

1. Reload the web page. You can do that by clicking the refresh/reload button, pressing F5, or trying the URL from the address bar again.
   Even though the 500 Internal Server Error is reporting a general error on the web site's servers and not your computer, the server error may only be temporary. Trying the page again will often be successful.
   
   Note: If the 500 Internal Server Error message appears during the checkout process at an online merchant, be aware that duplicate attempts to checkout may end up creating multiple orders - and multiple charges! Most merchants have automatic protections from these kinds of actions but it's still something to keep in mind.
2. Come back later. The 500 Internal Server Error message is one of the most common HTTP error message seen when checking out during an online purchase so sales are often disrupted. This is usually a great incentive to resolve the issue very quickly.
3. Contact the webmaster. Chances are good that the website administrators already know about the 500 error but if you suspect they don't, you can always try to contact the website directly.
   
   The best way to find contact information for a website is through a WHOIS search, using the domain name (i.e. facebook.com) as your search term. If that doesn't produce an email address, the webmaster of most Internet sites can be reached via email at webmaster@website.com, replacing website.com with the actual website name. [source: PC Support - About.Com]