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Keeping PHP up to date

PHP is the programming language that powers many web applications, including WordPress. You usually do not need to work with PHP directly, but your site depends on it behind the scenes. Keeping PHP reasonably up to date helps your site stay secure, compatible, and reliable.

Older versions of PHP eventually stop receiving security updates. When that happens, WordPress, plugins, themes, or other applications may begin to show errors or stop working correctly. A current PHP version can also improve site performance. In WordPress you will see a warning message in your Dashboard if you are running an out of date version of PHP

Before changing your PHP version

  • Log in to WordPress.
  • Update WordPress, plugins, and themes.
  • Remove plugins or themes you are no longer using.
  • Make sure you have a recent backup.
  • Note your current PHP version in case you need to switch back temporarily.

Do not change PHP immediately before a class presentation, assignment deadline, public event, or other time when the site must be available.

How to check or change your PHP version in cPanel

  • Log in to your Domains of One’s Own cPanel account.
  • Look for MultiPHP Manager.
  • Find your domain in the list.
  • Check which PHP version is currently assigned to the domain.
  • Select a current recommended version, if available.
  • Apply the change.
  • Open your site in a private or incognito browser window and click through several pages.

After updating PHP, check your site carefully. Look for:

  • Pages that do not load
  • Error messages
  • Missing images or formatting
  • WordPress dashboard problems
  • Plugin or theme warnings
  • Forms, maps, galleries, or embedded media that no longer work

If something breaks, switch the PHP version back to the previous setting and contact Digital Learning & Scholarship for help. In many cases, the problem is caused by an outdated plugin, theme, or application that is not compatible with the newer PHP version.