Behind each WooCommerce retailer is software program written in PHP. You don’t must know the way it works, however holding it updated is among the easiest issues you are able to do to maintain your retailer quick, safe, and operating easily.
Consider PHP just like the engine in a automobile. Newer engines are extra fuel-efficient and dependable. Older engines nonetheless work, however they’re tougher to take care of and extra susceptible to issues. The identical is true for PHP.
PHP is the programming language that powers WordPress and WooCommerce. When a buyer visits your retailer, PHP is working behind the scenes to load your merchandise, course of orders, and show your pages.
You don’t work together with PHP straight — your internet hosting supplier manages it for you. However the model of PHP that your website runs on could make an actual distinction to your retailer’s efficiency and safety.
Safety
Older PHP variations ultimately cease receiving safety updates (also called patches). PHP 7.4, for instance, reached its “finish of life” in November 2022. Meaning any safety vulnerabilities found since then haven’t been patched. Operating an outdated model is a bit like leaving your retailer’s again door unlocked.
Pace
PHP 8.1+ is considerably quicker than older variations. Quicker web page masses imply a greater expertise to your prospects — and might even enhance your search rankings.
Compatibility
As WooCommerce and WordPress proceed to evolve, we optimize for newer PHP variations. Staying present means you’ll have entry to the newest options and fewer compatibility complications.
WordPress makes this simple with a built-in software referred to as Website Well being. Right here’s the way to discover it:
- Log in to your WordPress dashboard.
- Go to Instruments → Website Well being.
- Click on the Data tab.
- Broaden the Server part.
- Search for the PHP model row.
When you’re operating PHP 8.1 or greater, you’re in nice form. When you see PHP 7.4 or 8.0, it’s time to consider upgrading.
What to do in the event you’re on an older model
The excellent news: upgrading PHP is often simple, and your internet hosting supplier handles the technical work. Right here’s what to do:
1. Contact your host
Most internet hosting suppliers provide PHP model controls of their dashboard, or can improve you upon request. Search for a setting referred to as “PHP model” or “PHP selector” in your internet hosting management panel, or attain out to their assist crew.
2. Select the suitable model
We suggest PHP 8.3 for the most effective steadiness of efficiency, safety, and compatibility. PHP 8.2 can be a strong selection. You may discover that PHP 8.3 is newer than PHP 8.2 — so why would somebody select 8.2? New PHP variations introduce enhancements, however they will additionally embrace modifications that take time for internet hosting platforms, plugins, and themes to totally undertake. That’s why many manufacturing websites run a model that’s extensively examined and confirmed throughout the ecosystem, even when a more moderen model is on the market.
When you’re curious what’s modified between variations, the PHP venture publishes detailed launch notes for every model.
3. Take a look at first if attainable
Some hosts provide staging environments the place you’ll be able to take a look at the improve earlier than making use of it to your stay website. It is a good precaution, particularly in the event you use loads of plugins.
When you’re purchasing for a brand new internet hosting supplier — or evaluating whether or not your present one nonetheless meets your wants — PHP model assist is price checking. A very good WooCommerce host ought to:
- Provide PHP 8.2 or 8.3 by default.
- Make it simple to modify PHP variations.
- Hold PHP up to date mechanically as new variations are launched.
You could find our beneficial hosts on the WooCommerce internet hosting web page.
Checking your PHP model takes lower than a minute, and upgrading is often only a fast message to your host. It’s a kind of small upkeep duties that pays off in higher safety, quicker efficiency, and peace of thoughts.
In case you have questions on your retailer’s server setup, our assist crew is completely satisfied to level you in the suitable route.
Brent MacKinnon is the director of product advertising and marketing and developer advocacy at WooCommerce, serving to to make the platform higher for builders and retailers alike. With over a decade of expertise in product advertising and marketing and technique, Brent is enthusiastic about supporting the WooCommerce neighborhood and serving to entrepreneurs of all types succeed with Woo.
