When activated, the WordPress autosave feature automatically saves changes to a post, page, or custom post type. It works on the Post Edit screen. WordPress takes advantage of the user’s browser’s local storage capability since version 3.6 in order to preserve changes even if internet access is lost. This feature is critical and beneficial because it avoids data loss by saving work. If your browser crashes suddenly while you’re working on a post, your work will not be lost (because of autosave).
How Autosave Works
WordPress will save your work automatically in the background when you’re working on a post, page, or custom post type. The interval between autosaves is 60 seconds by default. You can change this interval in the Autosave Interval field under Settings > Writing.
You’ll know that autosave is working if you see the Autosave indicator in the upper-right corner of your Post Edit screen.
The indicator will tell you when the most recent autosave occurred. If you see it, that means your work is being saved automatically.
If you’re not seeing the Autosave indicator, then it could mean that autosave is not working properly.
Troubleshooting Autosave
If you do not see the Autosave indicator in the upper-right corner of your Post Edit screen, then it could mean that autosave is not working properly. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Make sure you’re using a compatible browser. WordPress autosave requires a browser with HTML 5 local storage support. The most recent versions of all major browsers support this feature.
- Clear your browser’s cache and cookies. If you’re still not seeing the Autosave indicator, try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies. This can often resolve issues with WordPress autosave.
- Check your internet connection. WordPress autosave requires an active internet connection in order to work properly. If you’re not connected to the internet, then autosave will not work.
- Make sure the Autosave Interval is set properly. The default interval is 60 seconds, but you can change this in the Autosave Interval field under Settings > Writing. If the interval is too low, autosave may not work properly.
- Deactivate plugins and themes. If you’re still having trouble with WordPress autosave, try deactivating all plugins and themes. If that resolves the issue, then you can try reactivating them one at a time to narrow down the cause.
Resetting the Autosave Interval
If you’re still having trouble with WordPress autosave, you can try resetting the autosave interval. To do this, add this line of code to your wp-config.php file:
define( 'AUTOSAVE_INTERVAL', 60 ); // in secondsThis will reset the autosave interval to 60 seconds. You can change the number to any value you want. Just make sure it’s higher than the default (5 minutes).