A PHP update is determined by the web hosting providers of users and how their servers are configured for WordPress websites. Thus, we always recommend our WordPress users to only choose reliable and advanced web hosting providers, so that they do not need to face unexpected downtime after the update or during it.
BlueHost upgrading to PHP 5.4
Recently, we came to know about notices issued by Bluehost (A well-known website hosting provider) about their up-gradation to PHP 5.4. This blog post will give a beneficial insight that how these updates will affect the WordPress websites and WordPress users. We will also discuss about the preventive measures that can be taken to avoid any inconvenience, downtime or conflict on your website.
Though, whenever web hosting providers plan the PHP updates, they are supposed to work out smoothly, but depending on various factors, they may get terribly wrong also. But, if you choose the best and most reliable web hosting providers, the upgrade process does not affects the websites much, because they appoint top-notch technical personnel to plan and execute the upgrade process while monitoring
WordPress websites and PHP Updates
WordPress is an open source web development platform which is developed using PHP, an open source programming language. Most of the shared web-hosting providers are currently running the PHP version 5.4, and the ones that have not yet upgraded it to 5.4 are in the process of doing so. Though some web hosting providers give their users the flexibility to upgrade the PHP version that they are running through their control panel, but doing so may lead to some consequences which may not go well with your website, turning it down. The reason is, sometimes when you or the web hosting provider upgrades the PHP version; it may break or make some PHP applications dysfunctional.
Effects of PHP upgrade on WordPress websites
Though, there are very few chances that the PHP update will break your WordPress website’s PHP applications, but with a lot of plugins working on a site, even a single line of incorrect or poor code may result into an error.
What can you do to when your Web Host updates the PHP?
Well, when a web host plans a PHP update, they issue advance notices to users, so that they can prepare their website for the update process. Though, it is almost impossible that this update will break your PHP applications but it will be advantageous if you keep a fallback plan ready.
First of all, it is always recommended that you should indulge in regular backups of your WordPress sites. You can either choose automatic backup for your rescue and if, they are not available, one can go for manual installation of the backup system or can take them manually.
Also, ensure that you are running the most advanced version of WordPress and all the installed plugins & themes are cutting edge. Though, it is not a general scenario that plugins stop working after the PHP update, however, if it happens you can contact the author of the plugin for support or for an alternative solution.
What you need to do when PHP update breaks your site’s functionality?
If any error occurs with the plugin’s functionality, deactivate all the WordPress plugins and switch your site to default WordPress theme. If the problem still persists, you can call your Web hosting provider for support.
Satvik Infotech at your support
Satvik Infotech is a leading web solutions and support company helping its global clientele with cutting-edge web solutions and applications. If you are facing any difficulty with PHP updates on your WordPress website, you can contact us and we assure you that we’ll resolve all the issues within shortest span of time with the most effective web solutions – Get A Free Quote