Selecting and Configuring PHP Versions

Different web applications require different versions of PHP. cPanel's MultiPHP Manager lets you select which PHP version runs for each of your domains. Running the correct (and latest supported) PHP version is important for security, compatibility, and performance.

Please note: Screens and options may vary slightly depending on your cPanel version and hosting plan.

⚠️ Caution: Incorrect changes here can make your website inaccessible. If you are unsure about any step, please contact our support team before proceeding.

Checking Your Current PHP Version

1. Log in to your cPanel account.
2. In the Software section, click MultiPHP Manager.
3. The table shows each domain and its currently assigned PHP version.

Changing the PHP Version

1. In MultiPHP Manager, tick the checkbox next to the domain(s) you want to change.
2. Select the desired PHP version from the dropdown at the top of the page.
3. Click Apply.

The change takes effect immediately.

Which PHP Version Should I Use?

• Always use the latest PHP version that your application supports. Newer versions are faster and more secure.
• Check your application's documentation for PHP compatibility:

- WordPress — Requires PHP 7.4 or higher. Recommends PHP 8.2 or 8.3. - Joomla — Requires PHP 7.2.5+. Recommends PHP 8.1+. - Drupal — Requires PHP 8.1+. - Laravel — Depends on the version. Recent versions require PHP 8.1+.

• Avoid end-of-life PHP versions (e.g. PHP 7.4 reached end of life in November 2022). They no longer receive security updates.

Testing Before Switching

Before changing PHP version on a production site:

1. Check your application's compatibility requirements.
2. If possible, test on a staging site first (Softaculous can create staging copies).
3. After switching, thoroughly test your website — check all pages, forms, and functionality.
4. Review your error logs for any deprecation warnings or errors.

Tips

• PHP version changes only affect the domain(s) you select. You can run different PHP versions on different domains.
• After changing PHP versions, you may need to adjust PHP settings (memory limit, upload size, etc.) in the MultiPHP INI Editor, as these settings are per-version.
• If your site breaks after a PHP upgrade, you can immediately switch back to the previous version through MultiPHP Manager.

What Next?

• Customising PHP Settings (php.ini / .htaccess) — Adjust memory limits, upload sizes, and other settings.
• MultiPHP INI Editor — Fine-tune PHP configuration per domain.

Related Articles

• Customising PHP Settings (php.ini / .htaccess)
• MultiPHP INI Editor
• Viewing Error Logs