Overview
PHP is the programming language that WordPress code is based on. This language runs on the server, keeping it up to date is important to the security and functionality of your site. Due to the importance of using a stable version of PHP for security and functionality, we will soon be retiring End-Of-Life (EOL) versions of PHP across our Managed WordPress Hosting platform. Any sites that are still using EOL version of PHP after retirement will be automatically updated to a stable version of PHP.
General
Why is this happening?
EOL PHP versions are no longer supported for security updates, potentially making your WordPress site vulnerable. Updating to a current PHP version can also improve performance and stability for most sites.
When is this happening?
We will be retiring EOL versions of PHP throughout July 2022.
What versions of PHP will be retired?
Any version of PHP that is considered EOL. This includes:
- 5.6
- 7.0, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3
How can I see what PHP version I’m on?
Your PHP version can be seen in several locations:
- Managed WordPress: In the Account Center > Admin > Settings > Production Site > PHP Version. This is also where you can update your PHP version.
- PHP info file: A php info file can be added on your site to check the PHP version
Changes
What do you recommend I do?
If your site is running on an EOL version of PHP, the Deluxe, Ultimate, and Ecommerce Managed WordPress plans include a one-click Staging Site where you can test your site on the latest version of PHP. This is a great place to troubleshoot and overcome any problems you may encounter without affecting your live site. Once you've completed the update and fixed the issues in your Staging site, you can sync the changes to your live site.
On your staging site, we recommend updating your plugins and active theme. Depending on the EOL PHP version your site is running on, there may not be much that needs to change for your site to work properly. However, the older the version, the more work may be involved in getting your site ready for the change.
If your site is running on PHP version 5.6, we recommend reviewing the features that are deprecated in PHP 7.0.x at PHP.net. You may need to involve your website developer or technical administrator to ensure your site will function properly after the PHP version change.
What happens if I do nothing?
When a EOL PHP version is retired, any sites still using that EOL version will be updated automatically to a stable PHP version.
Because it's possible that some aspects of your website won't work if they are dependent on an older version, we recommend proactively testing and making changes on a staging site before EOL PHP versions are retired.
Further Questions
Have questions or concerns not covered in this article? Our Support Team is available through support request, chat, or phone at (310)-841-5500.
