Your website runs on a specific version of PHP, the programming language behind WordPress and most web applications and scripts. Sometimes a plugin, theme, or custom script needs a newer or older PHP version than the one your account is currently set to. You can change this yourself in a few minutes, without contacting support.
Back up your website before changing your PHP version. A version change can occasionally cause an outdated plugin, theme, or custom script to stop working, and a recent backup lets you undo the change quickly if that happens.
Checking Your Current PHP Version
Before switching, it helps to know what version you are currently on. Both control panels show this on the same screen you will use to make the change, so you do not need a separate step to check it first.
Changing the PHP Version
In cPanel
- Log in to cPanel and, under the Software section, click MultiPHP Manager.
- Find your domain in the list. The PHP Version column shows what it is currently using.
- Tick the checkbox next to your domain.
- Open the PHP Version dropdown near the top of the page and select the version you want.
- Click Apply to save the change.
In DirectAdmin
- Log in to DirectAdmin and click Select PHP Version (usually found under Extra Features or your domain's tools, depending on your account layout).
- Choose the PHP version you want from the tabs or dropdown at the top of the page.
- Review the list of PHP modules (extensions) that will be enabled for that version, since some scripts need specific ones turned on.
- Click Save to apply the new version.
What to Check After Switching
Once you have changed the version, open your website in a browser and click through a few pages, including any forms, checkout flows, or admin dashboards. If you use WordPress, log in to the admin dashboard and check that your active theme and plugins still work correctly.
If your site shows a blank page or an error message after the switch, it usually means a plugin or script is not compatible with the new PHP version yet. Switch back to your previous version while you update the affected plugin or script, then try again. If you are unsure what an error means, see our guide on common website errors and how to fix them.
Older PHP versions stop receiving security updates over time. If your site works fine on a newer version, it is worth staying on it rather than defaulting to the oldest option available.