How to update the PHP version

OBS: we cannot edit the code of your website for you. If it is needed, you must either do this yourself or find a developer that can help you.

Overview

To keep your website running smoothly, occasional updates need to be made to the software or plugins you use. In some cases this is manual work, but it is also possible that the updates are installed automatically.

These updates depend on PHP, the database engine that runs on the server. Like all software, PHP is constantly updated, so newer versions of WordPress also require newer versions of PHP.

We ensure that our servers are always up-to-date when it comes to the software offered. This means that our software (Plesk) is up-to-date and that the latest versions of PHP are available. And (if automatic updates are on) that your WordPress installation and plugins are updated. That goes well until a newer version of PHP is required.

Adjusting the required version of PHP is a manual action that you must perform yourself, because such an adjustment can have an impact on the operation of the site. Especially when it comes to an update from PHP 5.x (a commonly used, but very outdated version) to 8.2.

Adjusting the PHP version

• Log in to Plesk
• In Website & Domains (left menu) select PHP (under Dev Tools with the main shortcuts).

• In the next screen, select the version of the PHP or change what is needed, and hit save.

OBS: Changing the PHP version will almost certainly lead to a site where WordPress and the plugins used will have to be looked at. You need to upgrade to at least to PHP 8.1.28, once any older version will be disabled on our server.

If you are going to update the PHP version, it is advisable to first update your CMS and all plugins. Then adjust the PHP version and check (again) whether updates are available for your CMS and plugins.

Some changes were to the hosting package of a few of our customers in the past. If you do not see the option to manage the PHP version, contact us so we can help make the options visible for you.