If you have used WordPress, you must have at least once come across Installation failed: Destination folder already exists error. I have come across this error a couple of times. In fact, while handling the support tickets for our theme users, many users reported this error and really don’t know how to fix this error in a few easy steps.
Before we dive to fix this error, let know the reason why this error occurs in WordPress.
Contents
Why Installation failed: Destination folder already exists error occurs in WordPress?
When the installation of a theme or theme fails, for some reasons, it leaves behind a destination folder. The other scenario is when a theme or plugin is not removed completely, leaving behind some files and folders, the destination folder exists on your server.
So, when you try to reinstall the theme or plugin, an error popups up saying “Installation failed: Destination folder already exists“. It is because before the installation WordPress checks your directory and find the left directory of the theme or plugin and assume that the plugin or theme already installed.
Now you are aware why this error occurs, let us learn how to fix this error in two easy steps.
How to Fix Destination Folder Already Exists Error in WordPress?
There are two easy ways to fix this error, one using the plugin and another one deleting the folder on your server. In both cases, you will have to delete the folder of the theme or plugin that exists on your server.
Fix Destination Folder Already Exists Error using Plugin
At first, you need to install a free plugin, File Manager. To install the plugin, go to your WordPress Dashboard > Plugins > Add New > Search for File Manager > Install and Activate the plugin.
Once the installation is finished, you will see a WP File Manager tab in the dashboard. Click on the WP File Manager tab. You will be able to access your website files on your dashboard and it will look something like this:
Now, navigate to wp-content/plugins or wp-content/themes directory. Here you will see all the plugins/themes you have installed. Click on the plugin/theme folder which you want to remove and click on delete icon located at the top.
You will be asked for the confirmation. Click on Remove button and this error will be resolved.
Now, you can go to your dashboard and try to install the same theme or plugin and you won’t get any error.
Also read: 4 Steps to Secure WordPress Login Page
Fix Destination Folder Already Exists Error by accessing your Server
In this process too, you have to delete the destination folder of the plugin or theme. Follow the steps mentioned below to fix this issue:
- Login into your Cpanel.
- After successful login, click on File Manager icon. It will list the files and folders on your site.
- Navigate to public_html/domainname/wp-content/plugins or public_html/domainname/wp-content/themes.
- Select the folder you want to remove and click on Remove/Delete.
Also read: 10 Best WordPress Plugins for Your WordPress Site
Wrapping Up
These are two easy ways to fix destination folder already exists error in WordPress. You can fix this error by either way as per your convenience. I would suggest you use the plugin as it is easier and once the error is fixed you can deactivate/delete the plugin.
I hope you found this post helpful and was able to fix the “Installation failed: Destination folder already exists.” error in WordPress. If you face any issue or have any thoughts or questions, kindly let us know in the comment below.
