Different websites and applications may require different PHP versions to work correctly.

This guide explains how to change the PHP version for your website using DirectAdmin.

What Is PHP?

PHP is the programming language used by many websites and applications, including:

• WordPress
• Joomla
• Magento
• Laravel
• Custom PHP websites

Different applications may require different PHP versions for:

• compatibility
• security
• performance

Before You Start

Before changing your PHP version, make sure:

• You can log into DirectAdmin
• Your website supports the PHP version you want to use
• You have a recent website backup

If you have not logged in yet, please see:

• How to Log Into DirectAdmin

Important Recommendation

We recommend using the newest PHP version supported by your website software.

Newer PHP versions generally provide:

• better performance
• improved security
• better stability

How to Change PHP Version

Step 1 — Log Into DirectAdmin

Open your browser and visit:  https://cp.yourdomain.co.za   (Replace yourdomain.co.za with your own domain name)

Enter your hosting username and password.

Step 2 — Open Domain Setup

From the DirectAdmin dashboard:

Click:  Account Manager

Then click:  PHP Settings

Step 3 — Select Your Domain

Click the domain name you want to manage. The domain selector is on the top right.

Example:  yourdomain.co.za

Step 4 — Open PHP Settings

Locate the:  PHP Version Selector

Step 5 — Choose a PHP Version

Select the PHP version you want to use from the dropdown list.

Examples may include:

PHP 8.1
PHP 8.2
PHP 8.3

Click: Update Version

Step 6 — Adjust PHP Settings (Optional)

Some websites and applications may require higher PHP limits for:

• larger file uploads
• WordPress plugins
• themes
• backups
• imports

Locate the: PHP Settings

To change various setting Use the Add new override section.

Select the setting you want  ie memory_limit and set its limit to your requirement

Click: Add

You are able to adjust settings such as:

Common PHP Settings

upload_max_filesize

Controls the maximum file upload size.

Example:

128M

post_max_size

Controls the maximum size of form submissions and uploads.

Example:

128M

memory_limit

Controls how much memory PHP scripts may use.

Example:

256M

max_execution_time

Controls how long scripts are allowed to run.

Example:

300

max_input_vars

Controls how many input variables PHP can process.

Useful for large WordPress themes and plugins.

Example:

5000

Save the PHP Settings

After making changes:

Click: Save

The new settings should apply automatically.

Recommended PHP Versions

For most modern WordPress websites, newer PHP versions are recommended. ie 8.2, 8.3

Older PHP versions should only be used when required for compatibility reasons.

Test Your Website

After changing PHP versions:

Visit your website and test:

• pages
• forms
• WordPress admin
• plugins
• themes
• online stores

to ensure everything works correctly.

Common Reasons to Change PHP Version

Website Compatibility

Some older websites may only support specific PHP versions.

WordPress Requirements

New WordPress versions often require newer PHP releases.

Better Website Performance

Newer PHP versions can improve:

• loading speed
• memory usage
• website responsiveness

Improved Security

Unsupported PHP versions may contain security vulnerabilities.

Troubleshooting

Website Displays Errors After PHP Change

Possible causes include:

• outdated plugins
• unsupported themes
• incompatible scripts
• old website code

Try switching back to the previous PHP version if needed.

Blank White Page

This is often caused by:

• PHP compatibility problems
• fatal PHP errors
• outdated plugins/themes

Restore the previous PHP version and investigate compatibility issues.

WordPress Admin Not Loading

Some plugins or themes may not support newer PHP versions.

Try:

• disabling plugins
• updating WordPress
• updating themes/plugins

PHP Version Option Missing

Some hosting packages may have limited PHP management options.

Contact HostworX support if you cannot find PHP settings.

Helpful Tips

Keep WordPress Updated

Modern WordPress versions work best with newer PHP releases.

Update Plugins Regularly

Outdated plugins are one of the most common causes of PHP compatibility problems.

Create Backups Before Major Changes

Always create backups before:

• changing PHP versions
• updating plugins
• upgrading WordPress

Security Tips

• Use supported PHP versions
• Keep WordPress updated
• Remove unused plugins
• Remove outdated themes
• Keep regular backups