How to Change PHP Version

How to Change PHP Version in DirectAdmin? 2024

Updating the latest PHP version is crucial for security, performance, and compatibility with modern plugins and web applications. DirectAdmin offers a user-friendly, easy-to-use interface to manage and change PHP versions for your websites. This article will help you by explaining simple steps on “how to change PHP version in DirectAdmin”, ensure your website or blog compatibility with the latest functionalities, and maintain optimal security.

What is PHP? 

PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) is the most popular and widely-used open-source general-purpose scripting language that is especially suited for creating application development and dynamic website pages and can be PHP code embedded within HTML code. 

Why is PHP important for web development?

  • Widely Used: There are millions of websites powered by this popular server-side scripting language.
  • Dynamic Websites: It is easy to use for the creation of interactive and dynamic web pages that can adapt to user input or data.
  • Open Source and Free: Being free and open-source makes it accessible to everyone and allows for a large developer community.
  • Versatile: It extends beyond web development and uses blogs, apps, APIs, and command-line scripts.
  • Relatively Easy to Learn: Compared to other server-side languages, PHP has an easy, simpler syntax, making it easier for even beginners.

Backing up website files and databases before making any changes to the PHP version

It is recommended to create backups of your website’s files and databases. This ensures that you have a restore point in case anything goes wrong during the process. Most hosting providers offer backup tools within cPanel, allowing you to create backups easily.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your PHP Version in DirectAdmin

Logging into DirectAdmin: We use HostBet web hosting to access DirectAdmin. You can easily access it by logging into the HostBet client area using your username and password provided by your hosting company.

Step 1: Log in to your HostBet Client Area using your username and password.

Step 2: Locate your product or service and click on it. 

Step 3: Next, click on the “Log in to DirectAdmin” button. This will redirect you to the DirectAdmin control panel.

Alternatively, you can log in to DirectAdmin using your username and password.

How to Change PHP Version

Step 4: Once you’re in DirectAdmin, navigate to the “Basic Functionality” section within your DirectAdmin panel.

How to Change PHP Version

Step 5: Locate the “Select PHP Version” under the “Basic Functionality” section and click on it; this will redirect you to the “PHP Selector” page.

How to Change PHP Version
The location of the “Select PHP version” may vary slightly depending on your specific DirectAdmin theme, but it's usually under "Basic Functionality" or "Advanced Features.".

Step 6: Locate the “Current PHP version.” There will be a drop-down menu in front of it. Click on it and select the latest PHP version.

How to Change PHP Version

Step 7: Once you’ve selected the latest PHP version, click the “Apply” button.

How to Change PHP Version

Final Thoughts on How to Change PHP Version

By following these simple steps, you’ve successfully changed your PHP version in DirectAdmin. Remember, updating your website’s PHP version is crucial for security, performance, and compatibility with modern plugins and web applications. To secure your website, just check your PHP version periodically and update it when a new version becomes available. If you encounter any issues during the PHP Changing process, don’t hesitate to leave comments. 

Some Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to change PHP version?

Yes, staying on the latest PHP version helps ensure optimal website performance, security, and compatibility with modern plugins and web applications.

How to Change PHP version in DirectAdmin?

Follow these simple steps to change the PHP version in DirectAdmin.
1: Log in to your HostBet client area.
2: Locate your product or service and click on it.
3: Click “Log in to DirectAdmin.”
4: Navigate to “Basic Functionality” in your DirectAdmin panel.
5: Click on “Select PHP Version” (location may vary slightly).
6: Find the current PHP version and select the latest version from the dropdown menu.
7: Click “Apply” to save the changes.

Is it safe to update my PHP version?

In most cases, updating your PHP version is safe and crucial for security, performance, and compatibility with modern plugins and web applications. However, it’s always good for you practice to backing up your website before making any significant changes.

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