# Enabling PrestaShop maintenance mode

> Take your PrestaShop store offline while you make changes, with access still allowed for your own IP addresses.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/apps/prestashop/enabling-prestashop-maintenance-mode/

**Maintenance mode** allows you to temporarily take your PrestaShop store offline while you perform updates, apply changes, or troubleshoot issues. On **ruachost.com**, you can enable maintenance mode so only authorized IP addresses can access the store, while all other visitors see a maintenance message.

## Why Use Maintenance Mode?

- Prevents customers from seeing incomplete or broken pages during updates.
- Allows developers to test changes safely.
- Ensures a professional experience by showing a clear maintenance notice.

## Steps to Enable Maintenance Mode

1. Log in to PrestaShop as the **administrator**.
2. On the top menu bar, click **Preferences → Maintenance**.
3. Under **Enable Shop**, select **No**.

   - This takes your store offline.
4. In the **Maintenance IP** text box, enter the IP address(es) you want to allow access.

   - Alternatively, click **Add my IP** to automatically add your current IP address.
5. Click **Save**.

✅ Now, when you visit PrestaShop from an authorized IP address, the store displays normally. All other visitors will see a **maintenance message** in their browsers.

## Important Notes

- Always add your own IP address before enabling maintenance mode, or you may lock yourself out.
- Use maintenance mode during updates, module installations, or theme changes.
- Disable maintenance mode once your changes are complete to reopen the store.