---
title: "The package could not be installed. No valid plugins were found."
source: "https://docs.nexcess.com/software/kadence/the-package-could-not-be-installed-no-valid-plugins-were-found/"
description: "Why this happens This error appears when you try to upload a theme file in the Plugins section. WordPress checks for a valid plugin file and fails when the uplo…"
vertical: "Software"
area: "Kadence"
date: "2025-10-06"
last_modified: "2026-07-02"
---

# The package could not be installed. No valid plugins were found.

### **Why this happens**

This error appears when you try to upload a **theme file** in the **Plugins** section. WordPress checks for a valid plugin file and fails when the upload is actually a theme.

### **How to fix it**

1. Make sure you’re uploading a **plugin** file, not a theme. 
    - Plugin files are installed under **Plugins → Add New**.
    - Theme files are installed under **Appearance → Themes → Add New**.

### **Tip**

If you meant to install a theme, upload it through **Appearance → Themes → Add New** instead.

![](https://docs.nexcess.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Themes-‹-test-—-WordPress-2025-10-06-at-8.19.20-AM.jpg)