PHP is the programming language many websites, including WordPress sites, run on. Each PHP version is supported for a limited time. After its end of life it receives no more updates, including security fixes. If your site runs on an old version, plan an upgrade: check compatibility, test on a copy of the site, then switch.
How PHP support works
PHP.net explains that each version is fully supported for two years from its first stable release, with bug and security fixes, and then receives two more years of fixes for critical security issues only. After those four years the version reaches its end of life and is no longer supported, so security problems found later are not fixed.
As of October 5, 2026, PHP.net lists these dates:
| Version | Active support until | Security fixes until |
|---|---|---|
| PHP 8.2 | December 31, 2024 | December 31, 2026 |
| PHP 8.3 | December 31, 2025 | December 31, 2027 |
| PHP 8.4 | December 31, 2026 | December 31, 2028 |
| PHP 8.5 | December 31, 2027 | December 31, 2029 |
If your site still runs on PHP 8.2, it receives its last security fixes until the end of 2026. Older versions such as 8.1 have already reached their end of life.
Why it matters for your website
WordPress.org lists the PHP versions it recommends on its requirements page and notes that older versions which have reached their end of life may expose a site to security vulnerabilities. As of October 5, 2026, WordPress.org recommends PHP 8.3 or greater.
How to check your PHP version
- In WordPress: Tools, then Site Health, then the Info tab, Server section.
- In your hosting control panel, usually in the PHP settings.
- Or ask your hosting provider or developer.
How to upgrade safely
- Make a full backup of the files and the database.
- Update WordPress, themes, and plugins first; old plugins can be a source of problems.
- Switch a staging copy of the site to the new PHP version and test the main pages and forms.
- Fix or replace anything that breaks.
- Switch the live site, check it, and keep the backup until you are sure.
When a plugin or theme blocks the upgrade
If a plugin or theme doesn't work on a newer PHP version, the options are to update it, replace it with a maintained alternative, or have the code fixed. A plugin that is no longer maintained is a risk on its own, because it won't receive fixes for new PHP versions either.
Questions for your hosting provider
- Which PHP versions do you offer, and how do I switch?
- Can I test a new version on a staging copy first?
- Will you change the PHP version for me, and will I be told in advance?
Keeping PHP current is one of the routine tasks of website maintenance. See what website maintenance costs and includes.
When to get help
If the site depends on old custom code or abandoned plugins, an upgrade may need development work. Keeping PHP and plugins current is part of website maintenance & support; on your own server, see VPS & server management.
Sources
- PHP.net, Supported versions (accessed October 5, 2026)
- WordPress.org, Requirements (accessed October 4, 2026)