Speed
Updating the WordPress PHP version: why and how
6 March 2025 · 8 min read
PHP is the programming language on which WordPress runs. Just like your phone or computer, new versions are regularly released with performance improvements and security patches. Yet 40% of all WordPress websites still run on an outdated PHP version.
At WP Maintainer we ensure all our clients always run on a supported, optimised PHP version. In this article we explain why this is so important.
Performance differences per PHP version
Every new PHP version is faster than the previous one: - **PHP 7.4 → 8.0:** 20-25% faster - **PHP 8.0 → 8.1:** 10-15% faster - **PHP 8.1 → 8.2:** 5-10% faster - **PHP 8.2 → 8.3:** 5-8% faster A website running on PHP 7.4 can be 40-50% faster on PHP 8.3. That is an enormous difference without changing a single line of code.
Security aspects
Outdated PHP versions no longer receive security updates. - **PHP 7.4:** End-of-life since November 2022 — no more updates - **PHP 8.0:** End-of-life since November 2023 — no more updates - **PHP 8.1:** Actively supported until November 2025 - **PHP 8.2:** Actively supported until November 2026 - **PHP 8.3:** Actively supported until November 2027
A website on an end-of-life PHP version is a major security risk. Known vulnerabilities are no longer patched.
Check compatibility
Before updating, check whether your theme and plugins are compatible: 1. **Check plugin compatibility** — view the "tested up to" information 2. **Test on staging** — copy your site to a test environment 3. **View PHP logs** — after the update for error messages 4. **Have a backup** — in case you need to roll back
How do I update PHP?
**Step 1: Backup** Make a complete backup of your website and database.
**Step 2: Test on staging** If your hosting offers a staging environment, test the update here first.
**Step 3: Update via hosting panel** Log in to cPanel, DirectAdmin or Plesk. Look for "PHP Selector" or "PHP Version" and choose the latest stable version.
**Step 4: Test your website** Check all important pages, forms and functionalities.
**Step 5: Monitor** Review the error logs in the first 24 hours after the update.
Safe update with WP Maintainer
At WP Maintainer we perform PHP updates carefully on our staging environment. We test compatibility, monitor logs and ensure a smooth transition. With us your website always runs on a secure, fast PHP version.