Im trying to recover my password for my local ftp wp site. I wanted to reset password but it redirects me to a http://my-ip/lost-password/?page_id=546 and it says that page doesn’t exist. I’ve tried wp_set_password command in my theme functions.php file, i think its working but its weird. It doesn’t say that my password is not correct, it just redirects me to http://my-ip/wp-login.php?redirect_to=http%3A%2F%2Fmy-ip%2Fwp-admin%2F&reauth=1 and the page looks the same. I would appreciate any help on fixing this or helping me reset my password. Im using nginx.
When dealing with a local FTP WordPress site where password reset attempts redirect to a non-existent page like http://my-ip/lost-password/?page_id=546, it indicates a deeper configuration issue beyond simple password recovery. The redirect loop to wp-login.php with reauth parameters suggests the authentication system isn't properly recognizing the new credentials, even when using wp_set_password in functions.php. This situation often relates to server configuration or WordPress settings that need adjustment, particularly when working with different WordPress installations that might have unique setup requirements.
Understanding the Password Reset Redirect Issue
The continuous redirect between login pages while using nginx points to potential permalink conflicts or authentication cookies not being set correctly. When WordPress doesn't properly acknowledge password changes through wp_set_password, it typically means the user session isn't being updated or there are server-side caching issues interfering with the new credentials. This type of authentication loop can be particularly frustrating because the system doesn't provide clear error messages about what's actually failing. Sometimes these redirect problems stem from unwanted login redirects caused by plugins or theme functions that haven't been properly configured for local development environments.
Step-by-Step Solution for Local WordPress Password Reset
First, access the WordPress database directly through phpMyAdmin or command line. Locate the wp_users table and manually update the user_pass field using MD5 encryption for the new password. After updating, clear any existing WordPress transients and sessions by truncating the wp_options table entries containing 'session_tokens' and 'user_roles'.
Next, verify the nginx server configuration includes proper rewrite rules for WordPress permalinks. Check that the try_files directive includes the index.php fallback and that all WordPress .htaccess rules have been converted to nginx format. Test the login process again after clearing both browser cache and any server-side caching mechanisms that might be storing old authentication data.
Why does WordPress keep redirecting to login after password reset?
WordPress redirect loops after password changes usually occur due to corrupted user sessions or browser caching old authentication cookies. The system detects incomplete login credentials and continuously attempts to reauthenticate without success. This can be resolved by completely clearing browser cache and cookies or using private browsing mode to test the new password. Sometimes the issue relates to WordPress theme functionality that modifies login behavior without proper error handling.
Server-side session storage might retain outdated user data that conflicts with new password information. In nginx environments, fastcgi cache could be serving old versions of admin pages. The reauth=1 parameter specifically indicates WordPress believes the current authentication is insufficient for accessing the requested admin area, requiring fresh login validation with updated credentials.
How can I prevent WordPress redirect issues in local development?
Setting up proper local development environments from the beginning prevents many redirect problems. Use consistent local domains instead of IP addresses in WordPress configuration, ensure all permalink structures match the server setup, and regularly test login functionality during development. Implementing WordPress privacy configurations during local setup helps identify authentication issues early before they become complex problems requiring database intervention.
What's the most reliable method to reset WordPress admin passwords?
| Method | Best Use Case | Reliability |
|---|---|---|
| Database MD5 Update | Complete access loss | High |
| WP-CLI Command | Server command line access | High |
| Functions.php wp_set_password | Partial access to files | Medium |
| Email Reset Link | Working mail server | Variable |
Does nginx configuration affect WordPress password recovery?
Nginx configuration significantly impacts WordPress password functionality since missing rewrite rules can break the login and reset processes. Unlike Apache with .htaccess, nginx requires server-level configuration for proper WordPress URL handling. The try_files directive must include index.php as the final option, and location blocks need correct fastcgi parameters to process PHP files. Without these settings, WordPress post handling and authentication systems cannot function properly, causing endless redirects.
How do I troubleshoot WordPress login redirect loops?
Systematic troubleshooting begins with disabling all plugins by renaming the plugins folder, then testing login functionality with a default theme. Check server error logs for specific PHP or nginx messages, and verify the siteurl and home values in wp_options table match the actual domain. Sometimes the solution involves exploring WordPress hosting solutions with better support for authentication systems, as certain server environments handle WordPress sessions more reliably than others.
Can responsive design issues cause WordPress login problems?
While responsive design typically doesn't directly cause login redirects, poorly coded themes can introduce JavaScript conflicts that break authentication flows. Mobile-responsive login forms with custom validation might interfere with WordPress core authentication if not properly implemented. Testing login functionality across different devices helps identify whether responsive WordPress design elements are contributing to the problem, particularly when media queries or mobile-specific assets load different authentication mechanisms.
Professional WordPress Services at WPutopia
WPutopia offers comprehensive WordPress management services to handle technical challenges like password recovery issues, redirect problems, and server configuration conflicts. Our maintenance plans include regular security updates, performance optimization, and backup management to prevent authentication problems before they affect site accessibility. We specialize in resolving complex WordPress technical issues that go beyond basic troubleshooting.
From theme upgrades and plugin installation to custom development and server configuration, our team ensures your WordPress site remains secure, functional, and properly maintained. We help clients establish proper development workflows that minimize login and authentication issues, providing reliable support for both local development and production environments. Contact WPutopia today for professional WordPress solutions that keep your site running smoothly.
