Essential Guide on How to Update WordPress PHP Version Safely

Keeping your WordPress site running smoothly involves a lot of upkeep, and one of the most crucial tasks is updating the PHP version. By updating the PHP version, you can ensure speed, security, and compatibility for your WordPress site.

However, updating PHP might initially seem daunting, but frankly, it’s a simple process. In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process. By the end, you’ll be confidently managing your WordPress PHP updates like a pro.

What is PHP in a WordPress Site?

PHP is the backbone language powering WordPress websites and their dynamic features. Imagine it as the engine behind a vehicle, propelling your website to deliver a seamless and interactive experience without needing deep coding knowledge.

Its open-source nature means it’s consistently updated by a global community, making it vital to keep your WordPress PHP version current. Doing so not only secures your site but also spikes its performance, ensuring your users have the best experience possible.

Why Update PHP Versions?

Keeping your PHP version up to date is crucial for the optimal functioning of your WordPress site. Here are the key reasons why updating PHP is essential:

• Increase Site Speed: Newer PHP versions are optimized for performance, meaning they can significantly speed up your website. A faster site improves user experience and can boost search engine rankings.

• Enhance Security: Updated PHP versions incorporate vital security fixes that protect your site from vulnerabilities and threats. Using an outdated version can leave your site exposed to security risks.

• Ensure Compatibility: Modern features and functionalities in WordPress themes, and plugins are designed to work best with the latest PHP versions. Staying updated ensures everything runs smoothly and prevents potential compatibility issues.

By keeping your PHP version current, you not only enhance your site’s performance but also safeguard it against potential threats, maximizing its overall potential.

Know more: WordPress Help Premium and Free Resources

Checking the Current PHP Version

Before diving into updates, you need to know your current PHP version. Here’s how to quickly check:

• Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard.

• Go to Tools ⟶ Site Health ⟶ Info ⟶ Server. Look for the “PHP version” row to find your version number.

Alternatively, you could also check via your hosting account’s control panel or create a PHP info file (php file).

Knowing your PHP version helps you maintain and update your site efficiently, ensuring all elements stay compatible and functional.

PHP Version Compatibility

Using the latest PHP versions ensures compatibility with default WordPress themes and plugins. Most modern themes and plugins are designed to take advantage of the latest PHP features. Running an outdated version might cause malfunctions. So, always check that your plugins meet PHP version requirements before installation.

PHP in WordPress Optimization

The latest PHP versions enhance code efficiency, significantly speeding up WordPress site load times. WordPress recommends using PHP 7.4 or higher for optimal performance. A faster site elevates user experience, contributing to satisfied and returning visitors.

Staying Up to Date with PHP

PHP versions follow a predictable release cycle: two years of active support and one year of critical security updates. Updating your older PHP version ensures a secure and fast WordPress site. Monitor your WordPress backend dashboard and hosting communications for PHP updates.

How WordPress Maintenance Services Can Help

Website maintenance services play a crucial role in keeping your WordPress site up-to-date and safe.

Here’s how they can assist:

• Regular Updates: Maintenance services ensure that your WordPress core, themes, and plugins are consistently updated. This keeps your site equipped with the latest security patches and improves overall functionality.

• Enhanced Security Measures: Maintenance services help protect your site from threats and vulnerabilities by implementing active uptime monitoring and security protocols, giving you peace of mind.

• Routine Backups: Regular backups provided by maintenance services mean that you can quickly restore your site in case of data loss or other issues, reducing potential downtime.

• Performance Optimization: These services also focus on optimizing site speed performance, which includes improving loading times and resource usage, thereby enhancing user experience and search engine visibility.

With comprehensive WordPress maintenance services, you can ensure your website remains secure, efficient, and fully operational at all times.

Pre-Update Preparation Before Updating Your WordPress Site

Before you update your PHP version, careful preparation is crucial. This ensures a smooth transition without impacting your live site. Here’s how to prepare effectively and safely:

• Create a Staging Site: Start by cloning your existing site to a staging environment. This setup allows testing of updates and changes without impacting your live site.

• Test the PHP Update: Implement the PHP update on the staging site first. This step helps identify and resolve any issues that may arise before making changes to your live environment.

• Disable Problematic WordPress Plugins and Themes: Temporarily disable any WordPress themes or plugins that might cause compatibility issues during the update. Doing this helps prevent potential conflicts.

• Back Up Your Site: Make a complete backup of your site. This ensures that you can restore everything to its previous state if anything goes wrong during the update process.

By executing these steps in a controlled environment, you can confidently update PHP versions while minimizing the risk of disruptions to your live WordPress site.

Read: Update WordPress from Version PHP 7 Without Breaking the Site

Steps to Update PHP Version on WordPress Website

Updating the PHP version on your WordPress site is a relatively simple process, particularly when using cPanel provided by your hosting service. Here’s how to do it:

• Step 1: Log in to Your Hosting cPanel: Begin by accessing your hosting account’s cPanel. This is where you’ll manage all back-end settings for your website.

• Step 2: Find “Select PHP Version”: Navigate to the software section and locate the “Select PHP Version” option. This tool allows you to manage and modify PHP settings effortlessly.

• Step 3: Select and Apply the Desired PHP Version: Choose the PHP version you want from the drop-down menu and apply the update. This action updates your site to the selected version instantly.

By following these steps, you can keep your WordPress site running smoothly with the latest PHP enhancements.

If you’re unsure about doing it yourself, contact your hosting provider to perform the update. Additionally, some WordPress plugins can help automate the PHP update process.

Testing and Troubleshooting PHP Errors

Once you’ve updated PHP, thorough testing is essential to ensure everything functions correctly. Here’s how to address potential issues:

• Revert to Previous PHP Version: If you encounter errors, promptly revert to the earlier PHP version. This step minimizes disruptions and allows you to investigate the problem safely.

• Update WordPress Core, Themes, and Plugins: Ensure that your WordPress core, themes, and plugins are all updated to their latest versions. Compatibility with the newest PHP version often requires these updates.

• Enable PHP Error Reporting: Turn on PHP error reporting to help identify persistent issues. This feature provides detailed error messages that make diagnosing problems easier.

• Troubleshoot Potential Conflicts: Investigate further by disabling plugins, switching themes, or examining custom code. Through these actions, you can isolate and resolve what might be causing errors.

By ruling out conflicts and addressing issues systematically, you facilitate a smooth transition to the latest PHP version, ensuring your WordPress site operates seamlessly.

Learn: How to Fix or Redirect a 404 Error in WordPress

Pushing Updates from the Staging Site to Live Site

After completing thorough testing on your staging site, it’s time to apply these updates to your live site. Here’s how to do it efficiently:

• Use Host’s “Push Environment” Tool: If you’ve implemented extensive changes, take advantage of your host’s “Push Environment” tool. This feature simplifies the process, migrating all updates with just a few clicks.

• Replicate Changes Manually: Alternatively, manually replicate changes to ensure all adjustments are transferred accurately. This method offers a more hands-on approach and precise control over what gets updated.

• Consult Hosting Provider or Developer: If you encounter difficulties or need expert advice, consult with your hosting provider or a professional WordPress developer. They can provide guidance and help troubleshoot any issues.

By pushing updates properly, you mitigate risks and ensure that all improvements are effectively reflected on your live site, maintaining its reliability and performance.

Bonus: Updating WordPress PHP Version Through Hosting Panel

Updating your WordPress site’s PHP version via your web hosting provider is a straightforward process that can enhance your site’s performance and security. Below is a step-by-step guide for the top three WordPress hosting providers:

How to Update Your PHP Version in DreamHost

Following these steps in DreamHost ensures your WordPress site remains up-to-date with the most current PHP enhancements.

• Log into Your DreamHost Panel: Use your cPanel login credentials to access the DreamHost control panel. This is your starting point for managing various settings of your hosted websites.

• Navigate to Domains: Once logged in, go to Domains ⟶ Manage Websites. This section allows you to manage different aspects of your domain, including PHP settings.

• Select Your Website and Edit PHP Settings: Identify and select the website you’d like to update the PHP version. Click on “Edit” under the PHP section, which brings up the PHP configuration options.

• Choose and Save Your Desired PHP Version: From the PHP options, select your desired PHP version. Once selected, ensure you save the changes to apply the update seamlessly. This final step completes the process, making sure your site benefits from the latest PHP version.

Check out: DreamHost WordPress Hosting Review

How to Update Your PHP Version in WP Engine

Updating the PHP version in WP Engine is a simple process that enhances your website’s functionality and security. Follow these instructions to perform the update:

• Log in to Your WP Engine User Portal: Begin by accessing the WP Engine user portal with your credentials. This portal serves as the management hub for all your WP Engine-hosted sites.

• Navigate to Sites: Inside the user portal, go to the Sites section. Here, you can view and manage all the sites you have under your WP Engine account.

• Select Your Site and Access Environment Settings: Identify the site you wish to update and click on it. Once selected, click on the “Environment” tab where you will find various settings, including PHP options.

• Update PHP Version: In the environment settings, look for the option to update the PHP version. Choose the latest PHP version available and confirm your selection. This ensures that your site benefits from the latest performance and security improvements.

Check out: WP Engine Hosting Review

How to Update Your PHP Version in Bluehost

Updating your PHP version in Bluehost is essential to ensure your website remains secure and efficient. Follow these steps to update the PHP version smoothly:

• Log into Your Bluehost cPanel Account: Begin by logging into your Bluehost account and accessing the cPanel section. This control panel is where you manage various aspects of your hosting account.

• Find the Software Section: Once in cPanel, locate the “Software” section. This area contains tools for managing the server-side software configurations for your domains.

• Access PHP Config or MultiPHP Manager: Within the Software section, click on “PHP Config” or “MultiPHP Manager.” These tools allow you to configure PHP settings for your site.

• Select the Domain and Update PHP Version: Choose the domain for which you need to update the PHP version. Use the drop-down menu to select your desired PHP version. Make sure to choose the latest version compatible with your site carefully.

• Save Changes: After selecting the appropriate PHP version, save the changes to apply the update. This final step ensures your site is running the latest PHP, enhancing performance and security.

Best Practices for WordPress PHP Updates

Adhering to best practices is essential to ensure smooth and successful PHP updates on your WordPress site. Here’s how you can manage updates:

• Back Up Your Site: Always create a complete backup of your website before initiating any updates. This precaution safeguards your data, allowing you to revert to the previous state if necessary.

• Test Thoroughly Post-Update: After updating PHP, thoroughly test your site to verify that all functions and features remain intact. This step is crucial to catch any issues early and ensure consistent performance.

• Keep Everything Updated: Regularly update the WordPress core, themes, and plugins. Staying current helps prevent compatibility issues with the latest PHP versions and ensures your site operates optimally.

By following these best practices, you make managing PHP updates straightforward, keeping your WordPress site secure and efficient.

Conclusion

Updating your WordPress PHP version is more than just maintenance; it’s a strategic step in optimizing your site’s performance and security.

Embracing the latest PHP developments ensures better speed, more robust security measures, and compatibility with modern plugins. Hosting providers often streamline the update process, offering support if needed.

By understanding the steps and benefits, you can confidently update your PHP version, keeping your WordPress site swift and secure for all visitors.

FAQs About WordPress PHP Version