Powered By Network Solutions: PHP Upgrade FAQ
Will this change impact me or my websites?
We are upgrading PHP, and all websites will need to support version 7.4. If your website is built on an older version of PHP, it may be impacted and may break, so it is important to take the time to begin upgrading it so that it is compatible with PHP 7.4.
What is PHP? And what features are new with PHP 7.4?
PHP 7.4 is the latest stable version before PHP 8. This version contains numerous improvements in which you can expect increased performance, code readability, and other improved features such as:
- Typed Properties
- Arrow Functions
- Limited Return Type Covariance and Argument Type Contravariance
- Unpacking Inside Arrays
- Numeric Literal Separator
- Weak References
- Allow Exceptions from __toString()
- Opcache Preloading
- Several Deprecations
- Extensions Removed from the Core
What will happen to my websites that are running on older versions of PHP when the deprecated versions are phased out?
Your website and plugins may not work properly when older versions of PHP are phased out.
What is the new minimum PHP version that will be available?
While we are completing all the upgrades to our platform to support the newer versions of PHP, we require all customers to update to PHP version 7.4 if they are using a previous version.
I am currently using WordPress for my website. What can I expect when I update to PHP 7.4?
When you edit your PHP version, some elements of the website may stop functioning properly. An update to individual plugins or themes may be required.
If I have multiple websites inside my account, can each site use a different version of PHP?
Yes, you can use different versions of PHP for each website we currently host.
What should I do prior to making any PHP updates to my website?
You will want to take all necessary backups of your files and databases. This will ensure that you can restore your website to a previous working version if updates do not go according to plan.| For step-by-step information, please see Access and Restore Your Website Backups: A How-To Guide.
How do I change the version of PHP for my account?
The PHP version can be managed inside your account. For step-by-step information, please see How To Change Your PHP Version.
Do you know where I can learn more about PHP?
You can learn more about PHP and the Importance of which PHP version you use by reading Introduction to PHP.
I updated my PHP. Now I am experiencing issues. What do I do now?
Many variables could cause complications for WordPress users when updating their PHP version. Here is an article that helps troubleshoot the commonly seen error: https://developer.wordpress.org/advanced-administration/wordpress/common-errors/
My website started functioning after I disabled my website plugins, but it does not look as it should. What do I do next?
You should activate and update your plugins one by one. This will help you determine which plugin may not be compatible with the newer versions of PHP.
What can I do if I do not know how to make updates?
If you have a developer you have previously worked with, they may be a good point of contact who can assist you with these necessary updates. Though we are not associated with these websites, many of our customers have told us that they have found amazing developers using fiverr.com or upwork.com.
If it has been a while since you updated your website and you think it is time for a complete revamp, we can help you. For more information, please visit Our Website Design Services.
Useful Resources:
WordPress:
Joomla
Drupal