How to Change PHP and Database Version on Hosting

After you build a website or online store, everything should be working smoothly. Over time, things may start to slow down and begin throwing errors. Outdated PHP and database versions could be the culprit. Upgrading these can improve website performance, website security, and compatibility with modern plugins and themes. This guide will walk you through how to change PHP and database versions on hosting safely and efficiently, ensuring your website stays optimized for success.

In this article, we will discuss:

• Reasons why you should keep your PHP version up-to-date
• Understanding the importance of which PHP Version you use
• Update PHP Version
• Review

Reasons why you should keep your PHP version up-to-date

• The most important reason is security. It ensures that your system is patched regularly and protects you from vulnerabilities such as DoS, code execution, overflow, memory corruption, and information disclosure.
• Updates provide significant performance improvements over previous iterations.
• Updates introduce new features and capabilities.
• Support is another reason to update your PHP version. In most cases, if you need help with a theme, plugin, or any app that runs on PHP, their developers would be unable to extend their support to you if your system runs on an older version.

Understanding the importance of which PHP Version you use

The significance of selecting the correct PHP version for your use cannot be overstated. PHP, as a language, undergoes constant evolution to enhance its functionalities and security features. With every release of a new version, certain functions may become obsolete and removed, while new features are introduced to improve the language's capacity and security.

Applications and website creation tools developed for older PHP versions may face compatibility issues with newer releases and vice versa. Therefore, we ensure multiple PHP versions are available pre-installed to cater to any application requirements you might have.

Update PHP Version

You can update the PHP version running on your UNIX hosting packages. This is necessary if you try to run a new theme or plugin that takes advantage of something only found in a newer version of PHP. Follow these instructions to change the PHP version, which runs on your UNIX hosting package:

1. Log in to your https://www.networksolutions.com/my-account/login.
2. On the left side of the page, click Hosting.
   
   
    
3. Depending on the number of Hosting packages in your account, the Hosting section's interface may look slightly different. Full descriptions of each feature are discussed below.
    
   • If you only have one Hosting package in your account, you will be redirected to the Hosting Package Overview page details page right away.
     
     
      
   • If you have multiple Hosting packages in your account, click the MANAGE button on the respective Hosting package that you need to modify.
     
     
      
     Important: Only UNIX hosting packages can have the PHP version modified.
4. On the Configurations section of the hosting control panel, click the Show All option.
   
   
    
5. Click the icon for PHP Manager.
   
   
   
   The PHP Manager displays the current version of PHP running on your hosting package and the latest supported version.
    
   Note: Please review your code to ensure that it will work with the version of PHP that you are choosing. You may need to reach out to theme or plugin developers for assistance if you are using a Content Management System.
6. Click the drop-down menu to select the PHP version that you would like to run, and then click Continue.
   
   

You have now changed the version of PHP running on your UNIX hosting package.

Review

Follow this guide and learn how to change PHP and database versions on Hosting to keep your website running smoothly. You've taken a proactive step toward ensuring your website's optimal performance, security, and compatibility. Remember, a well-maintained website is a happy website (and happy visitors!).

If your website is experiencing sluggishness, errors, or compatibility issues, outdated PHP and database versions might be the root cause. Upgrading PHP and database versions is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your website's health. This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to update your PHP version confidently on your UNIX hosting package. Remember, for database upgrades, it's best to consult your web developer or support team.