By Jim Beck
If you run a WordPress website, you may have recently received a warning:
“PHP versions 5.6, 7.0, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, and 8.0 are deprecated. We recommend that you update to a supported version of PHP.”
This is not just a casual suggestion—it’s a critical mandate. Whether you manage your own hosting or rely on a provider, updating PHP is now an essential move to protect your website, improve performance, and maintain compatibility with WordPress core and plugins. In this post, we’ll break down what PHP is, why these versions are being phased out, what the consequences are of ignoring this warning, and how to make the transition safely.
What Is PHP and Why It Matters to WordPress
PHP is the server-side scripting language that powers the functionality behind WordPress. Every time someone visits your site, PHP is used to load content, interact with the database, and run plugins or themes. Think of it as the engine under the hood of your site. If it’s outdated, your website may slow down, behave unpredictably, or completely break.
WordPress and nearly every plugin or theme you use rely on PHP. And just like software on your phone or computer, PHP receives regular updates for speed, features, and—most importantly—security.
Why Older PHP Versions Are Now Deprecated
The PHP development team officially ends support for older versions of PHP in stages. Once a version is deprecated:
- It no longer receives security patches
- It becomes incompatible with modern WordPress versions and many plugins
- It may break your website over time due to deprecated functions and code
As of 2025, the following versions are officially deprecated and should no longer be in use:
- PHP 5.6 (released in 2014)
- PHP 7.0 through 7.4 (released between 2015–2019)
- PHP 8.0 (released in 2020)
The latest supported versions now include PHP 8.1 and 8.2, with PHP 8.3 already gaining traction.
The Real Consequences of Not Updating PHP
If you ignore the mandate to update PHP, here’s what you can expect:
- Security Vulnerabilities
Deprecated versions are no longer patched. That means hackers are actively exploiting known weaknesses. Running an old PHP version is like leaving your front door wide open. - Broken Plugins or Themes
Most modern WordPress plugins and themes are now built for PHP 8.1 and above. That means if your server is still on PHP 7.4, your favorite SEO plugin or eCommerce extension might stop working—or worse, crash your site entirely. - Slower Performance
Newer PHP versions offer dramatically better speed and efficiency. WordPress sites running PHP 8.1+ can load pages up to 50% faster than those on older versions. Staying outdated means frustrating your users and losing SEO ground. - Incompatibility with WordPress Core
WordPress will eventually stop supporting older PHP versions entirely. This means you’ll be locked out of future updates—cutting off access to new features, security fixes, and bug patches. - Higher Hosting Costs
Some hosts charge extra for maintaining legacy PHP environments or may stop supporting older versions altogether. If your host disables old PHP, your site could go offline without warning.
How to Safely Update Your PHP Version
Updating PHP might sound scary, but it’s a manageable task when done right. Here’s how:
- Backup Your Website
Always make a full backup (files + database) before making server-side changes. - Check Compatibility
Use a plugin like PHP Compatibility Checker to scan your theme and plugins. Identify and update any that may break under a new PHP version. - Update via Hosting Panel
Most hosting companies let you change your PHP version via cPanel, Plesk, or their custom dashboard. If you’re unsure, contact your host’s support team. - Test Your Site
After the update, test your website thoroughly. Visit each major page, log into the admin area, and check contact forms or checkout processes. - Stay Updated Going Forward
Set a reminder to revisit your PHP version at least once a year—or anytime WordPress releases a major update.
Final Thoughts
Updating PHP isn’t just a checkbox—it’s critical for the health of your WordPress site. Ignoring this update could mean security risks, broken features, slower speeds, and lost business. But with a little planning, you can future-proof your site, improve performance, and sleep easier knowing your digital presence is secure and optimized.
If you need help checking or updating your PHP version, reach out to your web host—or better yet, talk to a professional team like Baytech Companies who manages updates, security, and performance as part of a comprehensive digital strategy. Don’t let an outdated PHP version hold your business back.
Need help updating your WordPress site?
Contact Baytech Today — We’ll make sure you’re protected, updated, and running at peak performance.
