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This thread is resolved. Here is a description of the problem and solution.

Problem:
You are trying to switch the default language from English to French on your site and encounter a 'Error 404 Page Not Found' when you attempt to switch.
Solution:
If you're experiencing this issue, we recommend that after switching the default language, you should go to Settings -> Permalinks and resave the permalinks.

If this solution does not resolve your issue, or if it seems outdated or irrelevant to your case, please check the related known issues at https://wpml.org/known-issues/, verify the version of the permanent fix, and confirm that you have installed the latest versions of themes and plugins. We highly recommend opening a new support ticket if the problem persists. You can do so at WPML support forum.

This is the technical support forum for WPML - the multilingual WordPress plugin.

Everyone can read, but only WPML clients can post here. WPML team is replying on the forum 6 days per week, 22 hours per day.

This topic contains 1 reply, has 0 voices.

Last updated by anthony pezzullo 4 months, 2 weeks ago.

Assisted by: Osama Mersal.

Author Posts
January 18, 2025 at 2:43 am #16608631

anthony pezzullo

Background of the issue:
I'm trying to switch the default language from English to French on my site: hidden link.

Symptoms:
When I attempt to switch the default language, I encounter an 'Error 404 Page Not Found'.

Questions:
Why does switching the default language result in a 404 error?
How can I switch the default language without encountering errors?

January 19, 2025 at 2:51 pm #16610630

Osama Mersal
WPML Supporter since 02/2020

Languages: English (English ) Arabic (العربية )

Timezone: Africa/Cairo (GMT+03:00)

Hi,

Thanks for contacting WPML forums support. I'll be glad to help you today.

First of all, sorry for the late reply; it was due to a higher workload.

After switching the default language, please go to Settings-> Permalinks and resave the permalinks.

Best regards,
Osama

January 20, 2025 at 10:44 am #16612622

anthony pezzullo

thank you! that worked!!