How to Set post_max_size in PHP to Handle Large Requests

#php #webdev #devops #postmaxsize

If you’re dealing with large file uploads, complex forms, or REST APIs, you’ve probably run into frustrating PHP limits. One of the most important settings that controls how much data your PHP application can handle is post_max_size. This directive in your PHP configuration determines the maximum size of POST data that your server will accept, including file uploads and form submissions.

In this in-depth, step-by-step guide, we’ll explain what post_max_size is, why it matters, and how you can set or increase it properly. Whether you’re running a self-managed server, using cPanel, or managing your cloud server with ServerAvatar, we’ve got you covered.

What is post_max_size in PHP?

The post_max_size directive in PHP defines the maximum amount of data that can be sent via POST methods. This includes data sent from forms, file uploads, or APIs.

The default value is usually 8M (8 megabytes).
If your application tries to send more than this, PHP will discard the POST data and return an error.

So, if you’re getting errors like “POST content-length exceeds the limit”, increasing post_max_size might solve your problem.

Why Increasing post_max_size is Important

Here are some common scenarios where you might need to increase this limit:

Uploading large files through web forms
Sending large payloads to an API endpoint
Handling complex forms with many fields
WordPress media uploads failing
Laravel, Magento, or other PHP apps rejecting large requests

Without the right settings, users will face errors, and your application could become unreliable.

The Relationship Between post_max_size and upload_max_filesize

It’s important to know that post_max_size works together with upload_max_filesize.

upload_max_filesize controls the maximum size of an individual file.
post_max_size controls the total size of the request, including all files and fields.

Tip: post_max_size should always be equal to or greater than upload_max_filesize

Example:

upload_max_filesize = 50M
post_max_size = 60M

Methods to Set or Increase post_max_size in PHP

There are multiple ways to change the post_max_size value depending on how your server is configured.

Let’s look at them one by one.

Method 1:- Using ServerAvatar (Quick and Easy for Managed Servers)

What is ServerAvatar

ServerAvatar is a powerful and easy-to-use cloud server management panel that helps you manage your PHP-based websites and applications like WordPress, Laravel, Magento, and more — without needing advanced server knowledge.

If you’re using ServerAvatar to manage your cloud server, you don’t need to touch any code or open a terminal to change your PHP settings. You can do it directly from the dashboard in just a few simple steps — even if you’re not a developer.

Here’s how to increase post_max_size and upload_max_filesize using ServerAvatar:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Login to Your ServerAvatar Account

2. Open Your Application

From the left-side menu, click on “Applications”.