Why PHP 5.x is dangerous for your website

Introduction

PHP is the language used by many CMS platforms such as WordPress, Joomla, Drupal and Prestashop. For years, PHP 5.x was widely used, but today it is obsolete and should not be used on production websites.

Using PHP 5.x increases the risk of security issues, incompatibilities and performance problems.

What it means that PHP 5 reached end of life

When a software version reaches end of life, or EOL, it stops receiving:

• Security updates.
• Bug fixes.
• Official support.
• Compatibility improvements.
• Adaptations to newer technologies.

PHP 5.6 stopped receiving security support on December 31, 2018. Since then, any vulnerability discovered in that branch has no official fix.

Why using PHP 5.x is dangerous

Using PHP 5.x brings several risks:

1. Unpatched vulnerabilities.
2. Incompatibility with modern plugins and CMS platforms.
3. Lower performance.
4. Greater exposure to malware.
5. More difficulty getting technical support.
6. Problems when installing new versions of WordPress or Prestashop.

An old website may seem to work while still being exposed.

Benefits of updating PHP

Updating PHP improves:

• Security.
• Loading speed.
• Compatibility with current plugins.
• Stability.
• Resource usage.
• Your ability to receive support.

In many cases, moving from PHP 5 to modern versions can noticeably improve performance.

How to check which PHP version your website uses

From your hosting panel:

1. Log in to cPanel or DirectAdmin.
2. Look for the section related to PHP.
3. In cPanel it may appear as MultiPHP Manager or a PHP selector.
4. In DirectAdmin it may appear as a PHP version selector.
5. Check which version each domain is using.

[Suggested image: screenshot of the PHP version selector in the hosting panel]

How to prepare for the update

Before changing PHP:

1. Make a full backup.
2. Update WordPress, Prestashop or your CMS.
3. Update plugins, themes and modules.
4. Check whether your template is compatible.
5. Change it first in a test environment if possible.
6. Test the website after updating.

If the website is very old, it may require code adjustments.

Which PHP version to use

The best approach is to use a modern, supported version that is compatible with your website. Avoid old versions such as PHP 5.x and other branches that are no longer supported.

If your website does not work with a modern version, that is a sign it needs maintenance or an update.

Useful tips

• Do not postpone the update indefinitely.
• Update plugins before changing PHP.
• Remove old extensions you no longer use.
• Check the website for errors after the change.
• Keep backups available.
• Ask for help if your website has old custom code.

Common problems

My website breaks when I upgrade PHP

A plugin, theme or part of the code may not be compatible. Switch back temporarily if the previous version is available and update the problematic component.

I do not know whether my website supports modern PHP

Check the CMS documentation or test it in a staging environment.

I use an old script

It may require code adaptation. Keeping it on PHP 5 is not a safe long-term solution.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep using PHP 5 if my website still works

It may still work technically, but it is not recommended for security reasons.

Does updating PHP improve speed

In many cases, yes. Modern versions are more efficient.

Should I make a backup before changing PHP

Yes. Always make a copy before important changes.

Can miHosting help me review the version

You can contact support if you are unsure which version your domain uses or how to change it from your panel.

Conclusion

PHP 5.x is an obsolete and dangerous version for any modern website. Updating PHP is a basic measure for security, performance and compatibility.