How to Update Your WordPress Site's PHP Version Safely
Why your WordPress PHP version matters for speed and security, how to check which version you run, how to test and switch versions in your hosting panel, and what to do if something breaks.
On this page
- Old PHP versions miss security patches and run WordPress slower.
- Back up, update plugins first, replace abandoned ones and test on staging.
- Switch in the hosting panel, test key features and switch back if something breaks.
WordPress is written in PHP, and your hosting server runs a particular PHP version. Many older business websites still run on PHP versions that stopped receiving security fixes years ago. Updating is one of the simplest ways to make a site faster and safer, as long as you do it carefully.
Why the PHP version matters
- Security: old PHP versions no longer get security patches
- Speed: newer PHP versions generally run WordPress noticeably faster
- Compatibility: new plugin and theme versions eventually drop support for old PHP
Check your current version
- In WordPress: Tools → Site Health → Info → Server
- Site Health's Status tab also warns if your PHP version is outdated
- Or check your hosting control panel
Compare it with the supported versions listed on php.net and the recommended version on WordPress.org's requirements page.
Before you switch
- Take a full backup of files and database; see backup and restore guide
- Update WordPress, themes and plugins first. Old plugin versions are the usual cause of PHP problems
- Look for abandoned plugins that haven't been updated in years and replace them
- Test on a staging site if possible; see staging sites explained
How to switch PHP versions
Most hosts let you change the PHP version from the control panel, often under options like "Select PHP Version", "PHP Settings" or "MultiPHP Manager". Choose a newer supported version and save. If you can't find it, ask your host's support team.
Moving one major step at a time can make it easier to spot which change causes a problem.
Test after switching
- Homepage and key pages
- Contact forms (submit a test)
- WooCommerce cart and checkout
- Logging in to the dashboard
- Any custom features, calculators or integrations
If something breaks
- Switch back to the previous PHP version in the hosting panel. It's usually instant
- Check the error message or the recovery-mode email WordPress sends to the admin
- Identify the plugin or theme causing the error, update or replace it, then try again
See common WordPress errors and fixes.
Make it part of maintenance
Check the PHP version at least once a year, as part of your maintenance checklist. Or let a maintenance service handle it.
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