So, you’re casually scrolling Reddit, chuckling at memes and cat videos, when BAM! A wild error appears: “500 Internal Server Error.” Don’t panic. You’re not alone. This error is more common than you think, and it’s usually not your fault. Still, there are a few tricks you can try to get things back on track.
What is a 500 Internal Server Error?
The name sounds serious, but it’s just Reddit having a digital hiccup. The error means something went wrong on Reddit’s servers. It’s not an issue with your computer, phone, or Wi-Fi. It’s like going to your favorite coffee shop and finding they ran out of coffee. Nothing you did caused the problem. Still annoying though, right?
Quick Fixes You Can Try
Even though it’s a server error, there are a few things you can do to possibly fix it or at least work around it.
1. Refresh the page (like, seriously)
We know it sounds basic, but you’d be amazed how often this works. Just hit the refresh button or press F5. That might be all it takes.
2. Try a different browser
If you’re using Chrome and Reddit flips out, switch to Firefox or Safari. Maybe your current browser isn’t on Reddit’s good list today.
3. Clear your browser cache and cookies
Websites store little bits of data in your browser. Sometimes those files go bad, like old bread. Clearing them can wipe the slate clean.
- Go to your browser settings
- Find “Privacy and Security”
- Click “Clear browsing data”
- Select the time range (start with “Last 24 hours”)
- Make sure ‘Cookies’ and ‘Cached files’ are checked
- Hit that “Clear data” button!
Then, try going back to Reddit. Fingers crossed!
4. Disable browser extensions
Some extensions, like ad blockers, can mess with websites by accident. Try turning them off one by one to see if one of them is the culprit.
5. Use Reddit in Incognito Mode
Open an incognito or private browsing window. This skips most extensions and allows a clean visit to Reddit. If it works there, your regular browser probably has cached junk or naughty extensions.
6. Check Reddit’s server status
Before going full detective mode at home, maybe Reddit itself is down. Check sites like:
If lots of people are reporting issues, just wait it out. Grab a snack. Pet a dog. Reddit will be okay soon.
Mobile Users — You’re Not Forgotten!
If you’re using the Reddit app and meet that dreaded 500 error, try the following:
- Close the app completely
- Restart the app
- Clear the app’s cache (in your phone’s settings)
- Uninstall and reinstall Reddit, if nothing else works
Still seeing the error? You might want to use Reddit in your mobile browser for now.
When Nothing Works…
Sometimes the only thing you can do is wait. Reddit’s team is pretty quick about fixing things. So go outside. Do a puzzle. Watch paint dry. No really, go live your life until Reddit gets its act together.
Bonus Tip: Report the Error
If you keep having issues, consider reporting it. You can contact Reddit’s support team and give them the details. They might appreciate the heads-up, and hey—maybe you’ll become a hero!
The TL;DR Recap
- It’s usually Reddit’s fault, not yours
- Refresh the page and clear your cache
- Try a different browser or incognito mode
- Check Reddit’s server status
- Patience is key—Reddit will be back
Now go forth, brave internet traveler. May you conquer the 500 error and return to your scrolling in peace!
