Boost Your Website Performance: Update the PHP Version of Your WordPress Site

Boost Your WordPress Site’s Performance by Upgrading the PHP Version

If your WordPress website is running sluggishly, it’s time to consider upgrading the PHP version. Installing the latest PHP version not only improves performance but also enhances website speed. In this article, we will walk you through the process of upgrading the PHP version for your WordPress site.

The Advantages of Updating the PHP Version

Upgrading the PHP version can significantly enhance the performance of your WordPress website. Each PHP version optimizes processes and reduces memory usage, resulting in faster load times and less strain on your server.

Check for Compatibility

WordPress relies on PHP, an open-source programming language. The minimum requirement for WordPress is PHP version 7.4 or higher, with the latest stable version being 8.2.10. Most reputable WordPress hosting providers already meet these requirements by utilizing PHP versions 7.4 or higher.

To check your PHP version, navigate to the WordPress admin area, click on “Tools,” then select “Site Health” and switch to the “Info” tab. Expand the “Server” tab to view your PHP version.

How to Upgrade the PHP Version

Updating the PHP version of your WordPress website is a straightforward process, and most hosting providers offer an easy way to make the switch. Here are some examples from top hosting companies:

Example 1: Bluehost

1. Login to your Bluehost hosting account and access the “Advanced” tab.
2. Scroll down to the software section and click on the “MultiPHP Manager” icon.
3. Select your website and choose the desired PHP version.
4. Click “Apply” to save the changes.

Example 2: Hostinger

1. Login to your Hostinger account and go to the “Websites” tab.
2. Click the “Manage” button next to the website you want to update.
3. Navigate to the “Advanced” » “PHP Configuration” menu.
4. Select the PHP version you desire and click “Update” to save the settings.

Example 3: SiteGround

1. Login to your SiteGround account and visit the “Websites” page.
2. Click on the “Site Tools” button next to your website.
3. Access “DEVS” » “PHP Manager” from the left sidebar.
4. Choose either SiteGround’s Ultrafast PHP or Standard PHP.
5. Click the “Edit” icon to manually change the PHP version.
6. Select your desired PHP version from the dropdown menu.
7. Click “Confirm” to apply the changes.

Example 4: HostGator

1. Login to your HostGator hosting account and click on the “Hosting” section.
2. Click on the “cPanel” link associated with your website.
3. Scroll down to the software section and click on the “MultiPHP Manager” icon.
4. Select your domain name and pick the PHP version you desire.
5. Click “Apply” to save the settings.

Example 5: WP Engine

1. Login to your WP Engine dashboard.
2. Click on the PHP version next to your website.
3. Choose whether to downgrade or upgrade the PHP version.
4. Click “Change PHP version” to apply the changes.

If you are unable to locate the option to update the PHP version in your hosting dashboard, contact your hosting provider for assistance.

What to Do After Upgrading the PHP Version

After upgrading the PHP version, it’s important to ensure that everything is functioning correctly. Visit your website to check for any noticeable issues. Log in to the WordPress admin area and verify that you are using the latest WordPress version, as well as updated plugins and themes.

Backing up your WordPress website before making any changes is always a good practice.

Troubleshooting: PHP Update Causing Issues

While it is unlikely for a PHP update to break a WordPress site, certain plugins or themes may not be compatible with the updated version. If you encounter errors after the PHP update, follow these steps:

1. Deactivate all plugins and switch to a default WordPress theme.
2. If the issue persists, contact your web host’s support team for assistance.
3. If your host is unable to resolve the issue, you can downgrade your PHP version using the methods mentioned above.

In Conclusion

Upgrading the PHP version of your WordPress website is crucial for enhancing performance and website speed. Follow the steps outlined in this article to easily upgrade the PHP version through your hosting provider’s dashboard. Keep your website running smoothly by staying up to date with the latest PHP version.