If you haven’t performed a WordPress PHP update recently, your website could be exposed to security vulnerabilities, performance issues, and compatibility risks. Since PHP 7.4 reached its end of life on November 28, 2022, it no longer receives critical security patches, making websites running on outdated PHP versions prime targets for cyber threats.
Upgrading to PHP 8 is not just about security—it also ensures that your website operates efficiently, stays compatible with the latest WordPress updates, and benefits from enhanced performance. In this guide, we’ll explore why keeping your WordPress PHP update current is essential and how you can safely make the switch.
How to Check Your WordPress PHP Version
Before making any changes, it’s important to know which PHP version your WordPress site is currently using. Here’s how to check:
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
- Navigate to Tools > Site Health.
- Click on the Info tab.
- Scroll to the Server section and locate the PHP version.
If your PHP version is 8.1 or higher, your site is in good shape. However, if it’s 8.0, 7.x, or even 5.x, you are running an unsupported version and should upgrade as soon as possible. A WordPress PHP update will ensure your website stays secure and fully functional.
The Risks of Not Performing a WordPress PHP Update
1. Security Threats & Increased Vulnerability
Outdated PHP versions no longer receive security updates, leaving them vulnerable to newly discovered exploits. Hackers can take advantage of these security gaps to inject malicious code, steal sensitive data, or completely take over your website. Even if WordPress itself still technically supports PHP 7.4, this doesn’t mean it’s safe—without a WordPress PHP update, your website is at risk.
2. Plugin & Theme Compatibility Issues
As WordPress continues evolving, so do its plugins and themes. Most developers optimize their software for the latest PHP versions, meaning that outdated PHP can lead to broken functionality, error messages, and compatibility issues. By upgrading to PHP 8, you ensure your website remains fully functional and works seamlessly with the latest WordPress ecosystem. A WordPress PHP update helps avoid unexpected crashes and compatibility problems.
3. Performance Slowdowns
Newer PHP versions include significant performance optimizations. PHP 8, in particular, introduces faster execution speeds, reduced memory usage, and enhanced efficiency. Websites running on outdated PHP versions may experience sluggish load times, negatively impacting user experience and search engine rankings. A WordPress PHP update improves performance and keeps your site running smoothly.
4. Missing Out on New Features
PHP 8 introduces improved syntax, better error handling, and new functions that developers use to build more robust and feature-rich WordPress plugins and themes. Sticking with an outdated version means missing out on these advancements and potentially limiting your website’s functionality.
When You Should Be Cautious About a WordPress PHP Update
While upgrading to PHP 8 is generally recommended, it’s essential to check whether your existing themes and plugins are compatible. If your site relies on custom-built components that haven’t been updated to support PHP 8, you may experience issues such as broken layouts, missing functionality, or even complete site failures.
To avoid disruptions:
- Check plugin and theme documentation to confirm compatibility.
- Create a staging site to test PHP 8 before upgrading your live website.
- Contact theme and plugin developers for updated versions or alternative solutions.
If you discover that some plugins or themes are incompatible, consider replacing them with actively maintained alternatives or hiring a developer to update the code. A WordPress PHP update requires proper planning to prevent downtime.
What If You Can’t Perform a WordPress PHP Update Right Away?
If an immediate upgrade isn’t feasible due to compatibility concerns, you still need a security strategy. One option is utilizing extended PHP support services, which provide critical security patches for older PHP versions that no longer receive official updates. While this isn’t a permanent solution, it buys you time to plan a smooth transition without exposing your site to security risks.
How to Perform a WordPress PHP Update Safely
Once you’ve verified compatibility, follow these steps to upgrade PHP without breaking your site:
⚠️ Warning: While we provide the DIY approach, performing a WordPress PHP update without technical knowledge can lead to catastrophic issues, including complete site failure. If you are unsure about any of these steps, seek professional help before proceeding.
- Backup Your Website – Before making any changes, create a full backup of your site, including files and the database.
- Check Plugin & Theme Compatibility – Ensure all installed plugins and themes support PHP 8.
- Set Up a Staging Site – Test the upgrade in a controlled environment before applying it to your live site.
- Update PHP via Hosting Control Panel – Most hosting providers allow you to change the PHP version through cPanel or a custom hosting dashboard.
- Monitor Your Site – After upgrading, thoroughly test your website to confirm everything is working correctly.
If any issues arise, you can revert to your backup while troubleshooting compatibility problems. For businesses and critical websites, professional assistance is highly recommended.
Why Sentinel X is Essential Beyond PHP Updates
A WordPress PHP update is just one part of maintaining a secure and high-performing website. Keeping PHP updated is crucial, but it doesn’t prevent all threats. Sentinel X ensures that not only is your website running the latest PHP version, but it is also continuously protected against evolving cyber threats, plugin vulnerabilities, and misconfigurations.
Sentinel X provides:
- Ongoing PHP version monitoring & updates
- 24/7 security monitoring & malware protection
- Proactive vulnerability patching for WordPress & plugins
- Advanced firewall protection against brute force attacks
- Regular security audits and performance optimizations
- Automated backups and disaster recovery solutions
With Sentinel X, you don’t just upgrade PHP—you secure every aspect of your WordPress environment. Let Sentinel X handle security, performance, and maintenance so you can focus on growing your business.
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Final Thoughts
Performing a WordPress PHP update isn’t just a technical task—it’s a crucial step in securing and optimizing your website. With PHP 7.4 and older versions no longer receiving security updates, delaying the upgrade exposes your site to unnecessary risks. By transitioning to PHP 8, you improve security, boost performance, and ensure long-term compatibility with WordPress.
Need help managing your WordPress PHP update?
Our team at Xari can ensure your website runs smoothly and securely. Contact us today to discuss the best approach for keeping your site up to date and performing at its best.
Later edit (3/11/2025): Further Reading & Advanced Insights on PHP 8 & WordPress
Upgrading your WordPress PHP version is a critical step, but there’s more to consider than just security patches and version numbers. If you want a deep dive into PHP 8’s impact on WordPress, plugin compatibility challenges, and a step-by-step upgrade timeline, check out our latest in-depth guide:
Why Upgrading to PHP 8 is Crucial for Your WordPress Website: A Comprehensive Analysis
This guide covers:
- WordPress Core & PHP 8 Compatibility – How WordPress evolved to support PHP 8
- The Plugin & Theme Compatibility Challenge – Why some plugins still don’t support PHP 8
- The Performance & Security Advantages of PHP 8 – Why PHP 8 is a game-changer for speed and protection
- A Timeline for Preparing Your Website – When and how to safely transition your WordPress site
If you’re serious about keeping your website optimized, secure, and future-proof, don’t miss this comprehensive breakdown of PHP 8 and WordPress.
👉 Read the Full Guide Here: Why Upgrading to PHP 8 is Crucial for Your WordPress Website
