PHP is the language WordPress runs on, and keeping it updated is one of the most impactful — and most overlooked — maintenance tasks for any WordPress site.
What Is PHP and Why Does It Matter?
PHP generates your WordPress pages server-side on every visit. The version of PHP your server uses directly affects your site's speed and security. Each version receives security updates for a defined period, then reaches End of Life — meaning no more patches, forever.
What Version Should You Run?
As of 2025: PHP 8.2 or 8.3 are actively supported. PHP 8.1 reached End of Life December 2024. PHP 7.4 and earlier have been unsupported since 2022. If you're on PHP 7.x, you are on an unpatched, vulnerable version. Check: WordPress Dashboard → Tools → Site Health → Info.
Benefits of Updating to PHP 8.x
Security: Receives active patches. Older versions do not. Non-negotiable. Performance: PHP 8.x is 10–30% faster than PHP 7.x on identical code — faster page generation with the same server resources. WordPress compatibility: Required for current and future WordPress versions.
Risks of Updating
PHP updates can break poorly coded plugins or themes. PHP 8.x introduced stricter error handling that catches coding patterns PHP 7.x accepted silently. Test PHP version changes on staging first — always.
How to Update
Through your hosting control panel (look for "PHP Version" or "MultiPHP Manager"), by asking your host's support, or through a managed hosting/maintenance plan that handles PHP version management for you.
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