If your WordPress website feels slow, keeps showing errors, or certain plugins refuse to work, there’s a high chance your site is running on an outdated PHP version. And yes — knowing how to update PHP in WordPress can completely change your website’s performance, security, and SEO ranking.
Many beginners fear updating PHP because they think it might break their website. But the truth is: updating PHP is one of the safest, simplest, and most important tasks every website owner must do.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything — step-by-step — in a clean, simple, and human-friendly way.
What Does It Mean to Update PHP in WordPress?
Before we move ahead, let’s break it down in simple words.
PHP is the programming language WordPress is built on — just like an engine that runs your website. When you update PHP in WordPress, you upgrade that engine to a faster, safer, more powerful version.
Think of it like updating your phone or laptop:
New features, better performance, fewer bugs.
Why Updating PHP in WordPress Is So Important
Updating PHP is not just optional — it’s essential. Here’s why:
1. Faster Website Speed
New PHP versions run significantly faster.
A faster site means:
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Better SEO ranking
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Higher user engagement
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Lower bounce rates
2. Stronger Security
Old PHP versions are vulnerable to malware, injections, and hacking attempts.
Updating PHP protects your website from modern threats.
3. Better Plugin & Theme Compatibility
Many plugins stop working on old PHP versions.
Updating PHP ensures smooth functionality.
4. Higher SEO Performance
Google rewards fast, secure websites.
A PHP update directly boosts core web vitals.
5. Recommended by WordPress
WordPress strongly encourages users to stay on the latest stable PHP version.
Before You Update PHP in WordPress (Do This First)
Before making a major update, always prepare properly:
✔ 1. Backup Your WordPress Website
Use plugins like:
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UpdraftPlus
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Jetpack Backup
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Duplicator
This ensures full protection if something goes wrong.
✔ 2. Update Themes & Plugins
Outdated plugins may conflict with the new PHP version.
✔ 3. Check PHP Compatibility
Use the plugin:
PHP Compatibility Checker
It will scan your website and highlight any issues.
How to Update PHP in WordPress (Step-by-Step Guide)
Updating PHP is done from your hosting control panel, not from WordPress dashboard.
Here are the exact steps:
Step 1: Log in to Your Hosting Control Panel
Depending on your hosting provider, go to:
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cPanel
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SiteGround Site Tools
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Bluehost Control Panel
If you’re using Hostinger, it’s even easier — they have a simple PHP manager.
Step 2: Find the PHP Version Settings
Every hosting has this option in different places:
Look for:
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PHP Version
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PHP Configuration
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PHP Manager
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Software → MultiPHP Manager (for cPanel users)
Step 3: Choose a New PHP Version
Recommended PHP versions:
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PHP 8.1 (Stable + fast)
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PHP 8.2 (Latest & recommended)
Avoid versions older than PHP 8.0.
Step 4: Apply the Changes
Click Save, Update, or Apply based on your hosting panel.
Your website will now switch to the new PHP version.
Step 5: Test Your Website
After updating:
✔ Visit your homepage
✔ Check inner pages
✔ Confirm that contact forms, sliders, and plugins work
Everything should be smooth. If you face issues, simply switch back to the previous version temporarily and fix conflicts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Updating PHP in WordPress
Avoid these mistakes to stay safe:
❌ Not taking a backup before updating
Always take a backup. No excuses.
❌ Updating PHP without checking plugin compatibility
Some outdated plugins may cause errors.
❌ Ignoring outdated themes and plugins
Update them before switching PHP versions.
❌ Using unsupported PHP versions
Never use versions lower than PHP 7.4.
Benefits of Updating PHP (Real-World Example)
A client of mine had a WordPress store that loaded in 6 seconds.
After updating PHP (from 7.2 to 8.2) — without changing hosting or plugins — loading time dropped to 2.8 seconds.
Sales increased by 30% in the same month.
That’s the power of updating PHP.
FAQs – Update PHP in WordPress (Quick & Clear Answers)
1. Can updating PHP break my website?
It’s possible, but extremely rare if you take a backup and check compatibility beforehand.
2. Do I need developer skills to update PHP?
No — the process is simple and beginner-friendly.
3. What is the best PHP version for WordPress?
PHP 8.1 or 8.2 for maximum speed and security.
4. Can I update PHP directly from WordPress?
No. You must update it from your hosting control panel.
5. What if my website crashes after updating PHP?
Just switch back to the previous version from hosting or restore your backup.
Conclusion: Updating PHP in WordPress Is a Must
Updating PHP is one of the simplest yet most impactful steps you can take to improve your WordPress website. It boosts your speed, strengthens security, improves compatibility, and gives your users a smoother experience.
Most importantly — it keeps your site ready for future growth.
If you’ve been delaying the update, now is the perfect time to do it.
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