Different websites and applications may require different PHP versions.
Checking the PHP version can help when troubleshooting website errors, installing software, updating WordPress, or following developer instructions.
This guide explains how to check which PHP version your website is using in DirectAdmin.
Why Check the PHP Version?
You may need to check the PHP version if:
- Your website shows an error.
- WordPress reports an outdated PHP version.
- A plugin requires a newer PHP version.
- Your developer asks for the PHP version.
- You are preparing to update a website.
- You want to confirm a PHP change was applied.
- Your website is slow or outdated.
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 DirectAdmin username and password.
Click: Log In
Step 2 – Open Domain Setup
Once you are logged into DirectAdmin, open the domain settings area.
Click: Account Manager
Then click: Domain Setup
Step 3 – Select Your Domain
If your hosting account has more than one domain, select the correct domain.
Select: Your domain name, example: yourdomain.co.za
This opens the settings for that domain.
Step 4 – Check the PHP Version
Click: Account Manager
Then Click: PHP Settings
Select the domain using the domain selector on the top right side of the page.
PHP Version will display the PHP Version that is being used.
Step 5 – Check the Website After Confirming
After confirming the PHP version, test your website.
Open your website in a browser.
Check that the homepage, contact forms, login pages, and important pages work correctly.
Alternative Method: Check PHP Version in WordPress
If your website uses WordPress, you may also be able to check PHP version inside WordPress.
Log into WordPress.
Click: Tools
Then click: Site Health
Click: Info
Open: Server
Locate: PHP version
This can show the PHP version WordPress is currently using.
Alternative Method: Ask Your Developer
If you are not sure which PHP version your website should use, ask your website developer.
Some websites require a specific PHP version to work correctly.
Do not change PHP randomly if the website is working correctly.
Important Notes
Please keep the following in mind:
- PHP version can affect website compatibility.
- A newer PHP version is not always safe for older websites.
- Outdated PHP versions may be a security risk.
- WordPress, themes, and plugins may require specific PHP versions.
- Always test your website after changing PHP.
- If the website breaks after a PHP change, you may need to switch back.
When Should I Contact HostworX Support?
Contact HostworX Support if:
- You cannot find the PHP version setting.
- Your website breaks after changing PHP.
- Your developer requested a PHP version that is not available.
- WordPress shows an outdated PHP warning.
- Your website shows a 500 error after a PHP change.
- You are unsure which PHP version to use.
Conclusion
Checking your PHP version helps you understand which PHP environment your website is using.
This is useful for troubleshooting, updates, compatibility checks, and developer support.
If you are unsure whether to change PHP, check with your website developer or contact HostworX Support before making changes.
