Multisite Issues – How to Fix Domain Mapping Errors in Subdomain/Subdirectory Multisite Networks

Managing a WordPress multisite network can be a game-changer for businesses, developers, and bloggers who want multiple websites under a single WordPress installation. However, while multisite setups—whether subdomain-based or subdirectory-based—offer incredible flexibility, they often come with their own set of challenges. One of the most common issues site owners face is domain mapping errors.

In this article, we’ll guide you through understanding multisite domain mapping errors and show you practical steps to fix them.

Understanding Subdomain vs Subdirectory Multisite

Before diving into errors, it’s important to understand the two primary multisite setups:

1. Subdomain Multisite:
   Example: site1.yourdomain.com, site2.yourdomain.com

   • Each new site appears as a subdomain.

   • Requires wildcard subdomains to be set in your hosting DNS.

2. Subdirectory Multisite:
   Example: yourdomain.com/site1, yourdomain.com/site2

   • Each new site appears as a subdirectory.

   • Easier to manage but may need specific .htaccess rules to avoid URL conflicts.

Both setups can run smoothly if configured correctly, but improper domain mapping often breaks site accessibility.

Common Domain Mapping Errors

1. “Site Not Found” or 404 Errors:

   • Happens when WordPress cannot resolve the mapped domain correctly.

2. Redirect Loops:

   • Your mapped domain keeps redirecting to the main site.

3. SSL Certificate Issues:

   • Each mapped domain needs its own SSL certificate, or Let’s Encrypt must cover all domains.

4. Admin Dashboard Errors:

   • Subsite URLs in the dashboard don’t match the mapped domain.

How to Fix Domain Mapping Errors

Step 1: Check DNS Settings

• Ensure your domain’s A record points to your server’s IP.

• For subdomains, make sure the wildcard *.yourdomain.com is configured.

Step 2: Configure WordPress Properly

• Install and activate a reliable domain mapping plugin.

• Add the mapped domain in the plugin settings and assign it to the correct subsite.

• Make sure primary domain is selected if multiple domains are mapped.

Step 3: Update wp-config.php

• Add the following lines if not already present:

Step 4: Fix SSL

• For HTTPS domains, ensure your SSL covers all mapped domains.

• If using Let’s Encrypt, enable SSL for all subdomains and mapped domains.

Step 5: Clear Caches

• Clear WordPress cache, browser cache, and CDN cache (if any).

• Flush permalinks: Go to Settings → Permalinks → Save Changes to refresh rewrite rules.

Step 6: Test Each Domain

• Visit each mapped domain in an incognito window to ensure proper resolution.

• Check both frontend and admin dashboard for errors.

Pro Tips for Smooth Multisite Management

• Always backup your site before mapping new domains.

• Use a plugin like WP Multi Network if you have advanced multisite needs.

• Keep your WordPress, themes, and plugins up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.

• For complex DNS setups, contact your hosting support—they can ensure your server is configured for multisite correctly.

Conclusion

Multisite WordPress networks can save time, reduce hosting costs, and improve site management efficiency. However, domain mapping errors can be frustrating and may impact your site’s accessibility and performance. By following the steps above—checking DNS, configuring WordPress properly, updating SSL, and clearing caches—you can fix these errors and run a seamless multisite network.

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