Demo Import is one of the most popular features in modern WordPress themes. It allows you to import a fully functional website with just one click (or a few simple steps). This feature saves you significant time that would otherwise be spent building your website from scratch.
Typically, demo import works through a WordPress plugin recommended by your theme. This plugin helps you install demo content—including pages, posts, widgets, and theme settings—within minutes.
Most themes offer a one-click demo import option, enabling you to set up your website exactly like the theme demo with a single click. Convenient, right?
However, sometimes the demo import process may not complete successfully. If the demo installation takes too long or fails to produce results, the import might have failed.
Common Causes of Demo Import Failure
- Low PHP Configuration Limits
If your PHP memory limit, file upload size, or maximum execution time are set too low, the demo import may fail to complete. - Hosting Restrictions
Some web hosts use “process watching” software that blocks or limits bulk processes, which can interrupt the demo import process.
Recommended PHP Configuration for Successful Demo Import
If the demo import fails, you may see an error message such as “Import Failed” or notice that the import process keeps loading indefinitely. This usually happens when the PHP configuration limits are too low.
In such cases, contact your hosting provider and request the following minimum recommended PHP values:
| max_execution_time | 300 |
| memory_limit | 256M or higher |
| post_max_size | 32M or higher |
| upload_max_filesize | 32M or higher |
| max_input_vars | 3000 |
How to Check Your PHP Limits
You might be wondering how to verify your PHP configuration values. Some WordPress themes include a System Status page in the theme dashboard where you can view your server settings.
If your theme doesn’t provide this feature, you can install a plugin such as WP ServerInfo (or any similar plugin) to check your PHP limits. If you find that your PHP limits are below the recommended values, contact your hosting provider and ask them to increase them.
Note: Some cheap shared hosting plans may not allow increasing PHP configuration limits, which could prevent the demo import from completing successfully. In that case, consider upgrading your hosting plan.
If you are using one of our Premium WordPress Themes, you can check the System Status directly from your dashboard: Theme Panel >> System Status
Make sure there are no red warnings.
If you see any red remarks, contact your hosting provider and request an increase to the recommended PHP limits.
