Just a heads-up for people who use wpDiscuz and SiteGround as their web host.
If you use the SiteGround Optimizer plugin, there is a setting that can cause the wpDiscuz comment fields to disappear for logged-out guests.
The setting is found at:
Speed Optimizer → Frontend → JavaScript → Combine JavaScript Files
If Combine JavaScript Files is enabled, the wpDiscuz comment fields disappear for guests. The fields still appear for logged-in users.
I confirmed that this is specifically a conflict between wpDiscuz and the Combine JavaScript Files setting. If I deactivate wpDiscuz while leaving Combine JavaScript Files enabled, the normal WordPress comment fields reappear.
So the problematic combination is:
- wpDiscuz activated
- SiteGround Optimizer activated
- Combine JavaScript Files enabled
I tested the other JavaScript optimization settings and they do not cause this problem. These can remain enabled:
- Minify JavaScript Files
- Defer Render-blocking JavaScript
So, if you're using wpDiscuz with SiteGround Optimizer and your comment fields suddenly disappear for guests, check:
Speed Optimizer → Frontend → JavaScript → Combine JavaScript Files
and make sure Combine JavaScript Files is OFF.