Our shared hosting offers the following PHP versions: 5.2.x (Windows Only), 5.3.x (Windows Only), 5.4.x, 5.5.x, 5.6.x, 7.0.x, 7.1.x, 7.2.x, and 7.3.x. We make every effort to keep these PHP releases updated to their latest minor versions to address performance issues, security concerns, exploits, and other problems. That said, we cannot always immediately implement brand new major versions of PHP.

This selection ensures that both legacy and modern applications can be hosted effectively while maintaining a secure environment for all users on the shared platform.

#Why PHP Version Management Is Critical

Using an up-to-date PHP version is essential for protecting your website from known vulnerabilities that are regularly discovered and patched in newer releases. Older versions no longer receive security updates, making them targets for exploits that could compromise not only your site but the shared server. Newer versions also deliver measurable performance gains, reduced memory usage, and better support for current libraries and coding standards.

#Available PHP Versions

The PHP versions provided on our shared hosting platforms are: - 5.2.x (Windows Only) - 5.3.x (Windows Only) - 5.4.x - 5.5.x - 5.6.x - 7.0.x - 7.1.x - 7.2.x - 7.3.x

#PHP 4 and Legacy Version Considerations

PHP v4 is not supported on any of our systems. v4 is very much out of its life cycle and most scripts have moved on to support v5. If you still require this legacy version we recommend you check out our VPS and Dedicated server offerings; these solutions allow you to install and configure your own PHP setup and version of your choice.

#How to Check and Switch PHP Versions

To check the PHP version currently in use by your site, you can use a simple PHP script. Upload this code to your web root as version.php and visit it in your browser.

php 
<?php
    phpinfo();
?>

For switching versions, access your hosting control panel and locate the PHP configuration or version selector. Choose the desired version from the list and apply the change. It is crucial to test your website extensively after any version change, including all forms, database interactions, and third-party integrations.

Common pitfalls include breaking changes between major versions such as altered error handling, removed functions like the old mysql_ extension, or stricter type handling that can trigger fatal errors. Always review the official PHP migration guides for the specific versions involved and test in a non-production environment first.

Takeaway: Always use the highest PHP version compatible with your application to maximize security and performance. If you need assistance with version selection or troubleshooting compatibility, consult our support resources or open a ticket for personalized help. See our related articles on custom php.ini settings and control panel tools for further configuration steps.