Keeping PHP versions up to date is essential for a secure and faster WordPress site. A boost in site performance is beneficial to SEO, and improved security keeps hackers away from your website.
Once you decide to update your version of PHP, it is vital to take the following precautions:
- Create a backup of your website so that, in the event that something goes wrong, you may restore it using the backup version.
- Make sure your website is fully up to date. In your WordPress dashboard, go to the Updates page and install the latest versions of WordPress, themes, and plugins
- Check if the current themes or plugins installed are compatible with the new PHP version. Use PHP compatibility checker plugins like PHP Compatibility Checker or any other WordPress plugin to check compatibility.
- Fix all errors or compatibility issues highlighted in the compatibility issues list.
After you have taken these precautions, you can update your PHP version by following the steps below:
1. Login into your cPanel account
2. Select MultiPHP Manager in the Software section.
3. Select the domain you want to upgrade by checking the box on its left side.
4. Select the newest PHP version from the dropdown, then click Apply.
5. There will be a pop-up in the upper right corner notifying you that the change was successful.
Another option is using the 'Select PHP Version' software, however, the PHP Selector is being phased out, so you will most likely use MultiPHP Manager.
Updating PHP Version in WordPress using Select PHP Version Software:
1. Login into your cPanel account
2. Click Select PHP Version in the Software section.
3. Select the PHP version from the drop-down list:
3. Click Apply to update the PHP version
4. The PHP version is now updated to the latest version or selected version
5. Return to WordPress. On the Dashboard in the left sidebar, click Tools, and then click Site Health to check the updated PHP settings
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our support team at [email protected]
