This article explains how to diagnose and resolve issues where product pages load slowly and external stock levels are not displayed in the storefront.
It is based on a resolved case where the integration failed to retrieve an authentication token from the external stock system after a network change. The guidance below walks through structured checks to quickly isolate whether the issue lies with configuration, connectivity, or endpoint changes.
Before escalating, complete the checks outlined below and collect supporting evidence (HAR files, screenshots, connector settings) to assist investigation.
Use Cases
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Product pages take significantly longer than normal to load.
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External stock levels do not display on product pages.
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The Add to Basket button is disabled or unavailable.
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The issue began after a broadband, firewall, or network infrastructure change.
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One storefront works correctly while another does not.
Key Settings to Review
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Connect Plugin – API URL
Confirm the endpoint used to contact the external stock service.
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Connect Plugin – Credentials
Verify the application ID/email/password used to request an authentication token.
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Handle Stock Setting
Ensure the product or connector setting instructs the system to use the external connector for stock handling.
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Storefront Connector Mapping
Confirm the connector is enabled for the affected storefront.
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Connection Test / Integration Logs
Use the built-in test function to attempt token retrieval and review any error responses.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide
1. Confirm the Symptom
Open an affected product page and observe:
Document the behaviour.
2. Capture Browser Evidence
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Generate a HAR file from the browser Network tab.
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Check the Console tab for JavaScript errors.
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Capture screenshots showing missing stock or disabled purchase controls.
3. Compare Working vs Non-Working Storefronts
If another storefront is functioning correctly:
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Compare connector assignment
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Compare API URL configuration
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Compare stock handling flags
Differences here often identify misconfiguration.
4. Test the Connector
Use the Connect plugin’s Test Connection feature.
Expected outcome:
If the response is null, empty, or errors:
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The integration cannot reach the external service
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The endpoint may be incorrect
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Credentials may be invalid
5. Verify the API Endpoint
If token retrieval fails, confirm:
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The external stock system’s public address has not changed.
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The connector is not pointing to an outdated IP address.
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The correct hostname or current public IP is configured.
In the referenced case, the external system’s public IP changed following a network migration, and the connector continued referencing the previous address. Updating the API URL resolved the issue.
6. Confirm Network and Firewall Rules
If the endpoint is correct but connection still fails:
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Confirm outbound traffic from the integration environment is not blocked.
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Confirm inbound firewall rules on the external system allow requests from the integration server.
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Verify no recent security rule changes were introduced.
Firewall allowlisting may be required depending on hosting setup.
7. Prefer DNS Over Raw IP (Best Practice)
If the external stock system is hosted on a connection where public IPs may change:
8. Re-Test End-to-End
After configuration changes:
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Re-run the connector test.
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Reload a product page.
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Confirm:
9. When Escalating to Support
Provide:
Including this information significantly reduces investigation time.
Summary of Confirmed Root Cause (From Resolved Case)
In the validated incident:
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The external stock system’s public IP changed following a network migration.
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The Connect plugin API URL still referenced the previous IP.
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The system could not retrieve an authentication token.
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Updating the endpoint resolved both slow loading and missing stock display.
Additional Resources
For further guidance, consult your internal integration documentation or contact your Support team for assistance.
Related links