Short answer
Delete the
.maintenance file in your WordPress folder. WordPress creates it during an update and removes it afterwards; if an update is interrupted the file is left behind and the site stays stuck.It is a hidden file, so turn on “show hidden files” in the File Manager to see it. Once deleted the site returns immediately — then check that the interrupted update actually completed.
Learn more
- WordPress stuck on “Briefly unavailable for scheduled maintenance”Why WordPress gets stuck in maintenance mode after an interrupted update, how to remove the .maintenance file, and how to check the update finished.
- How to show hidden files like .htaccessFiles starting with a dot are hidden by default. How to show them in DirectAdmin’s File Manager, FileZilla, Mac and Windows.
- Updating WordPress, themes and plugins safelyWhy updates matter, the safe order to update, how automatic updates work, and what to do if an update breaks your site.
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