# Troubleshooting blank pages in PrestaShop

> Fix the PrestaShop blank page or white screen by enabling error reporting, clearing the cache and disabling faulty modules.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/apps/prestashop/troubleshooting-blank-pages-in-prestashop/

Sometimes PrestaShop may display a **blank page** (also called the *“white screen of death”*). This usually indicates a problem with a module, theme, or server configuration. On **ruachost.com**, you can resolve this by enabling error reporting and clearing caches.

## Common Causes

- Malfunctioning or incompatible module.
- Theme errors or missing files.
- PHP configuration issues.
- Cache corruption (Smarty or PrestaShop cache).

## Step‑by‑Step Troubleshooting

### Step 1: Enable Error Reporting

1. Log in to your hosting account via **SSH** or **cPanel File Manager**.
2. Open the file:

   ```
   config/defines.inc.php
   ```
3. Find the line:

   ```
   define('_PS_MODE_DEV_', false);
   ```

   ```
   ```
4. Change `false` to `true`:

   ```
   define('_PS_MODE_DEV_', true);
   ```
5. Save the file. ✅ PrestaShop will now display detailed error messages instead of a blank page.

### Step 2: Clear the Cache

1. Log in to PrestaShop as the administrator (if possible).
2. Go to **Advanced Parameters → Performance**.
3. In the **Smarty** section, set **Force compilation** to **Yes** and **Cache** to **No**.
4. Save changes.
5. Refresh your site.

If the admin panel is inaccessible:

- Use **SSH** or **cPanel File Manager**.
- Delete contents of these folders (but keep `index.php`):

  - `/cache/smarty/compile`
  - `/cache/smarty/cache`

### Step 3: Disable Problematic Modules

- If error reporting shows a module error, disable that module from the admin panel.
- If you cannot access the panel, disable the module directly in the database via **phpMyAdmin** by editing the `ps_module` table.

### Step 4: Check PHP and Server Settings

- Ensure your hosting account is running a supported PHP version for your PrestaShop release.
- Verify memory limits and execution time in `php.ini` or cPanel settings.

## Important Notes

- Always disable error reporting after troubleshooting (`true → false`) to avoid exposing sensitive information.
- Back up your site before making changes.
- If issues persist, [Contact Us](https://dashboard.ruachost.com/submitticket.php?step=2&deptid=2) for assistance.

##