ExpressionEngine® User Guide

Legacy Documentation

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A problem was encountered while attempting to upload your file

When trying to upload a file, ExpressionEngine returns the following error: “A problem was encountered while attempting to upload your file.”

Troubleshooting File Upload Issues

This error is usually caused by insufficient permissions or incorrect configuration:

  • The Upload Directory needs sufficient permissions for PHP to write files to the filesystem. See File Permissions for details.
  • The error can also occur if ExpressionEngine could not copy or move the uploaded file from the temporary upload directory, as specified by the server. The upload directory needs appropriate permissions.
  • In a similar vein, the error may be triggered if there is insufficient disk space available. A zero byte file may result in this case.
  • In Files, a full server path must be provided in the Server Path to Upload Directory preference. This is neither a relative path nor a URL. If the exact path is not known contact the host or server administrator to obtain that information.
  • In some cases this error has been reported due to a trailing slash (/) at the end of the directory name under Files (or Gallery or Forum Preferences).