← Blog · 23 Sep 2026

Upgrade to a Newer PHP Version: Speed and Security for WordPress

PHP versions stop receiving security fixes after a few years. Newer versions are also noticeably faster for WordPress and WooCommerce.

Steps

1. Backup files and database.
2. Update WordPress, theme and plugins first.
3. Test on a staging copy with the new PHP.
4. Switch PHP in the control panel (PHP selector).
5. Check the site and the error log.

If you see errors

Turn on WP_DEBUG_LOG, find the plugin named in the error, update or replace it. Roll back PHP only as a short-term fix.

Our WordPress hosting lets you choose the PHP version per site.