Introduction
BuddyBoss uses symbolic links for efficient file management. If you’ve enabled symlinks on your server but still see the error “Symbolic links don’t seem to work on your server,” it usually means PHP cannot follow those links. This guide explains how to ensure direct PHP file access is enabled so that symbolic links function correctly.
Enable Direct PHP File Access
- Contact your hosting provider and request they disable any PHP filesystem restrictions (e.g., open_basedir, PHP safe mode) so that PHP scripts can follow symbolic links.
- If you’re on Cloudways, ask them to enable Application Access → Direct PHP File Access. On other hosts, ask support to show you the equivalent setting in their dashboard.
Troubleshooting and FAQs
Q: What is direct PHP file access?
A: A server setting that allows PHP scripts to follow and read files via symbolic links without restriction.
Q: I don’t see a “direct PHP file access” option—what next?
A: Every host labels it differently. Ask support to disable any PHP file system restrictions and enable symlink following.
