Every website needs a particular PHP version to run well. Install a modern CMS or a new plugin and it may ask for a newer version; an older site, on the other hand, might need an older one. You can switch it yourself in about a minute.
How to change the version:
- Log in to cPanel from your client area.
- Find the Select PHP Version tool, or MultiPHP Manager.
- Pick the domain (if you have several) and choose the version you want from the dropdown.
- Save. The change takes effect right away.
Enabling extensions: in the same tool, under the Extensions tab, you can turn on modules that some software needs (for example imagick or intl). Only tick the ones you're asked for; enabling extras does nothing useful.
Tips:
- Before bumping the version, back up your site. If something breaks, just switch back to the previous version.
- As a rule of thumb, use a version that's still supported; very old ones are less secure and slower.
Can't find the tool, or your site errors out after the change? Open a ticket telling us which version you need and what for, and we'll help you get it dialled in.
