Powered by Network Solutions: How to Update PHP for WordPress

WordPress runs on a coding language called PHP, and keeping it updated is just as important as updating your themes and plugins. Updating to the latest PHP version can speed up your site, make it more secure, and even give it a boost in search rankings. Sure, WordPress will still work on older PHP versions, but using the newest one means you’ll get the latest features, better performance, and stronger protection against hackers.

WordPress and PHP

WordPress is built on the PHP coding language. While it is essential to keep your themes and plugins up to date, keeping your PHP version up to date is equally important. Running the latest PHP version will ensure that your website runs faster and will stay more secure.

Additional Benefits

1. Faster WordPress websites may rank higher in search results.
2. Faster websites will help you retain site visitors.
3. A secure website will cost less in the long run.
4. A secure website will keep its reputation when protected from hackers.

WordPress is backward compatible, meaning that it will still run on older versions of PHP. However, to take advantage of new features, it is advisable to update to the latest version offered in your hosting dashboard.

Before You Update

Updating your PHP will not usually be a problem, but there is no guarantee that an issue might arise.

1. Back up your website. Use one of the free backup plugins available through your WordPress dashboard.
2. Update WordPress, themes, and plugins to the latest versions.
3. Run the PHP compatibility checker plugin.
4. Fix any compatibility issues found by the checker.

How to Update Your PHP Version

1. Log in to your account via https://www.networksolutions.com/my-account/login.
2. Click Hosting on the left navigation menu.
   
   
    
   Note: Alternatively, if you have multiple hosting accounts, you need to click MANAGE first to proceed with Step 3.
3. Click Scripting Config on the left menu.
   
    
4. In the SCRIPTING CONFIGURATION section, select and click Manage PHP Scripting.
   
    
5. Under ACTIONS, click Change PHP Version.
   
    
6. Select your preferred PHP Version from the dropdown, and tap Set Version to complete the process.
   
    

Review

Keeping your WordPress site in top shape isn’t just about updating themes and plugins — you also need to keep your PHP version up to date. Since WordPress runs on PHP, upgrading to the latest version can speed up your site, improve security, and even boost your search rankings. Before you update, back up your site, update all themes and plugins, and run a compatibility check to avoid issues. If you’re on older versions like PHP 5.3 or 5.5, update in two steps — first to 5.6, then to 7.4. With Network Solutions, updating PHP is quick and easy from your hosting dashboard, helping your site stay fast, secure, and reliable.