{"id":22590,"date":"2026-08-28T12:49:03","date_gmt":"2026-08-28T10:49:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/?post_type=docs&#038;p=22590"},"modified":"2026-08-28T12:49:03","modified_gmt":"2026-08-28T10:49:03","password":"","slug":"change-php-version","status":"publish","type":"docs","link":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/hilfe\/webhosting-cpanel\/php-version-aendern\/","title":{"rendered":"Change PHP version in cPanel"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can change the PHP version of a website yourself in the CURIAWEB cPanel. CURIAWEB basically recommends the <strong>MultiPHP Manager<\/strong>. This allows you to specifically determine for your domains which PHP version available on the server should be used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Changing the PHP version may be necessary, for example, if a website, a CMS, a plugin, or another PHP application requires a newer version or no longer functions correctly after an update.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this tutorial, we will show you step by step how to change the PHP version of a domain via the <strong>MultiPHP Manager<\/strong> you make changes and then check whether your website continues to function without errors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important:<\/strong> You should not choose a PHP version solely based on the principle of \u201ethe newer, the better.\u201c The version you use must be supported by your website and the extensions you use. Therefore, especially with older websites, check their compatibility before making a switch.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is PHP?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">PHP is a server-side programming language used by numerous websites and content management systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This includes WordPress, for example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a visitor accesses a PHP-based website, the server processes the PHP code and generates the content that is subsequently delivered to the browser.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Simplified:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>Browser\n   \u2193\nWeb server\n   \u2193\nPHP\n   \u2193\nWebsite \/ application\n   \u2193\nfinished response to the browser<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why are there different PHP versions?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">PHP is constantly being further developed. Among other things, new versions bring technical improvements, bug fixes, and changes to the programming language.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the same time, older websites or extensions may contain program code that is no longer compatible with a newer PHP version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, multiple PHP versions may be available for selection on a hosting server.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When should you change the PHP version?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A change may be useful or necessary, for example, if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>your application requires a specific PHP version<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>WordPress or another CMS has been updated<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a plugin or theme requires a newer PHP version<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>a previously used PHP version is obsolete<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>you want to test the compatibility of a website with a newer PHP version<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>it is necessary to temporarily revert to the previous version following a change<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">CURIAWEB recommends the MultiPHP Manager<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In CURIAWEB-cPanel, several PHP-related tools may be visible. For selecting a domain's PHP version, we generally recommend the <strong>MultiPHP Manager<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can find him at:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Software \u2192 MultiPHP Manager<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>CURIAWEB recommendation:<\/strong> For the PHP version of your website, always use the <strong>MultiPHP Manager<\/strong>. This keeps the PHP configuration traceable and avoids unnecessarily mixing different PHP management systems.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the MultiPHP Manager?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The MultiPHP Manager makes it possible to manage the PHP version for domains within a cPanel account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is particularly practical when multiple websites are hosted in the same hosting account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, provided the corresponding versions are available on the server, different domains can use different PHP versions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>website-a.ch\n\u2192 PHP version A\n\nwebsite-b.ch\n\u2192 PHP version B\n\nshop.example.com\n\u2192 PHP version C<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So you don't necessarily have to use the same PHP version for all websites on your hosting account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Before the PHP migration: Update website<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before you change the PHP version on a production website, you should update its software to a current and supported state if possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In WordPress, this particularly affects:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>WordPress itself<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plugins<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Theme<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outdated extensions are among the most common reasons why a website shows errors after a PHP upgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Create a backup before making important changes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a live website, a recent backup is generally recommended before major technical changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While a PHP update does not automatically change your website files or database, it can cause incompatible program code to stop working.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical Tip:<\/strong> Note the PHP version used previously before the switch. If the website does not work with the new version, you will know exactly which version to switch back to first.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Log in to cPanel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Log in to your CURIAWEB cPanel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then open the section:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Software \u2192 MultiPHP Manager<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Search desired domain<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The MultiPHP Manager displays the domains or hostnames whose PHP version can be managed within your hosting account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Find the domain whose PHP version you want to change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><code>example.com<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Attention:<\/strong> If you host multiple websites in one hosting account, check the domain name very carefully. Do not accidentally change the PHP version of another live website.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Check current PHP version<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First, check which PHP version is currently displayed for the domain in question.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note this version before making a change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is especially helpful if you discover an error after the switch and want to quickly revert to the previous configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Select domain<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Select the relevant domain in the MultiPHP Manager overview.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check again to make sure that the desired website has really been selected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Select new PHP version<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then select the desired version from the PHP versions available on your hosting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Which versions are displayed depends on the current server configuration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important:<\/strong> Use only one PHP version that is supported by your website or application. The fact that a PHP version is available in the selection menu does not automatically mean that every older application is compatible with it.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Which PHP version should you use?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a modern website, you should generally use a modern PHP version supported by the CMS you are using and its extensions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Which specific version is correct, however, depends on the application being used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are unsure, check the system requirements of the CMS or the software being used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do not stay permanently on an old PHP version<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a website only works with a significantly older PHP version, you should not consider this a permanent solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is rather an indication that parts of the website may need to be updated or replaced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In WordPress, for example, an outdated plugin or theme can be the cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Adopt PHP version<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After selecting your desired PHP version, apply or save the changes in the MultiPHP Manager.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wait until cPanel confirms that the setting has been changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Check setting in MultiPHP Manager<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then check the entry of the domain in question again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The desired PHP version should now be displayed there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This changes the server-side assignment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important:<\/strong> The successful change in the MultiPHP Manager confirms the PHP configuration\u2014not automatically the compatibility of your website. You must test this practically afterwards.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Test website immediately after migration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Open the website in the browser after the change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">First check the home page and then some important subpages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, on a WordPress website, you should check:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Home<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>important subpages<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>WordPress Login<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Administration area<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Forms<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plugins with important functions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In an online shop, you should also test central shop functions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Not only check if the homepage appears<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A website can look normal on the homepage while a specific extension is not compatible with the new PHP version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, test the functions that are processed on the PHP side particularly thoroughly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical Tip:<\/strong> A successful home page is a good first sign, but not yet a complete compatibility test.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Website no longer works after PHP change<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If an error occurs immediately after the switch, an obvious first test is to switch back to the previously used PHP version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Go again to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Software \u2192 MultiPHP Manager<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Select the relevant domain and restore the previously noted PHP version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then test the website again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Website works again after switching back<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the website works again with the previous PHP version, this strongly suggests that there is an incompatibility with the newly selected PHP version within the website or application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With WordPress, you should check in particular:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>WordPress version<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plugins<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Theme<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>custom programmed PHP code<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Switching back may make the website accessible again initially, but it does not fix the actual incompatibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Website shows a 500 error after PHP switch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><code>500 Internal Server Error<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">can occur after a PHP update, among other things, if PHP code or a configuration is not compatible with the new environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the event of an error that occurs immediately after making a PHP change, temporarily revert to the previous version as a test.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the error disappears with this, the actual cause should be investigated afterwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We cover a detailed diagnosis under <a href=\"\/en\/help\/web-hosting-cpanel\/fehler-500-internal-server-error\/\">Fixing a 500 Internal Server Error<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Website shows only a blank page<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A blank or white page can also indicate a PHP error.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That no visible error message appears does not mean that PHP has not logged an error.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check the available error logs if necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain how to use cPanel error logs for diagnosis at <a href=\"\/en\/help\/web-hosting-cpanel\/read-cpanel-error-log\/\">Read cPanel Error Log and find website errors<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Note error message after PHP update<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the website displays a specific error message, note it down as completely as possible before making any further changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Particularly helpful are tips on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>File names<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Path<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Line number<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Function names<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plugin or theme<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Type of PHP error<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This information can point directly to the incompatible component.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fatal Error after PHP switch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A PHP fatal error means that PHP could not continue processing at a certain point.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Following a version change, for example, outdated program code may use a function or syntax that is no longer compatible with the new PHP version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The correct solution is then usually to update the affected software or to fix the incompatible code\u2014not to use an outdated PHP version permanently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Deprecated warnings after PHP update<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After a PHP update, notices with terms such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><code>Deprecated<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Such messages indicate that program code uses functions or behaviors that are considered deprecated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They should not simply be ignored, especially in the case of actively maintained software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Distinguish PHP version and PHP extensions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Selecting a PHP version and the availability of certain PHP extensions are two different things.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, an application can support a specific PHP version while simultaneously requiring an additional extension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If an application reports after the switch that a certain PHP extension is missing, you should therefore not automatically assume that the PHP version itself is wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We cover the management of PHP extensions under <a href=\"\/en\/help\/web-hosting-cpanel\/enable-php-extensions\/\">Enabling and Managing PHP Extensions in cPanel<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Differentiate PHP version and PHP settings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition to the PHP version, PHP has numerous other settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This may include, for example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>memory_limit\nupload_max_filesize\npost_max_size\nmax_execution_time<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Changing the PHP version does not automatically set all of these values to the settings required by an application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain how to check and adjust PHP settings at <a href=\"\/en\/help\/web-hosting-cpanel\/php-einstellungen-aendern\/\">Change PHP settings in cPanel<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Handle PHP limits separately<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, if a website reports that the PHP memory is insufficient or an uploaded file is too large, the PHP version is not necessarily the problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then PHP limits like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><code>memory_limit<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">or:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><code>upload_max_filesize<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">to be relevant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We cover these settings in detail under <a href=\"\/en\/help\/web-hosting-cpanel\/set-php-limits\/\">Set PHP memory limit, upload size, and execution time<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Multiple domains can use different PHP versions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your hosting account contains multiple websites, the MultiPHP Manager can manage the PHP versions on a per-domain basis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<pre class=\"wp-block-code\"><code>firma.ch\n\u2192 modern PHP version\n\nalte-anwendung.ch\n\u2192 temporarily different PHP version<\/code><\/pre>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This allows you to update one website without necessarily having to convert another one at the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do not accidentally select multiple domains at the same time<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The MultiPHP Manager can enable the editing of multiple selected domains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, check which domains are selected before applying a PHP version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Attention:<\/strong> When multiple domains are selected, a change can affect multiple websites. Check the selection before applying.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Subdomain with its own PHP application<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even a subdomain can contain its own web application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><code>shop.example.com<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If it can be managed separately in the MultiPHP Manager, you should also check carefully here which hostname is affected by the change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain how to generally set up subdomains at <a href=\"\/en\/help\/web-hosting-cpanel\/create-subdomain\/\">Create subdomain in cPanel<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does \u201einherit\u201c or \u201evererben\u201c mean?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Depending on the cPanel configuration, a domain may indicate that it is inheriting a PHP setting or PHP version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In simple terms, this means that no separate PHP version has been set for this location and a parent configuration is being used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not change an inherited configuration just because the word <code>inherit<\/code> is displayed. What is decisive is which PHP version the website should actually use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Remember the cache after a PHP change<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a website uses caching, cached content may still be displayed temporarily after a technical change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, that doesn't mean you should blindly clear all caches every time you change PHP versions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the behavior after a change is unclear, consider existing website, plugin, or server-side caches during testing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do not enforce PHP version via .htaccess when using MultiPHP<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In older guides on the internet, you will sometimes find recommendations to manually change a PHP version via entries in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><code>.htaccess<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">to determine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the PHP version in your CURIAWEB hosting is managed via the MultiPHP manager, you should not insert any additional old handler lines from third-party guides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Attention:<\/strong> Do not copy old PHP handlers from internet tutorials into your <code>.htaccess<\/code>. Such entries may be incompatible with the current server configuration and, in the worst case, cause website errors.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can find the basics about the file and secure editing under <a href=\"\/en\/help\/web-hosting-cpanel\/htaccess-explained-edited\/\">.htaccess explained and safely edited<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why do I additionally see \u201eSelect PHP version\u201c?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In the field of <strong>Software<\/strong> In addition to the MultiPHP Manager, another PHP management tool may be displayed in your cPanel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The fact that several PHP tools are visible does not mean you should configure your website through all of these tools at the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For the selection of the PHP version, CURIAWEB generally recommends:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Software \u2192 MultiPHP Manager<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important:<\/strong> Avoid configuring a website's PHP version through different PHP management tools at the same time. This complicates troubleshooting and can lead to a messy configuration.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Check PHP version after website migration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a website has been migrated from another server to your CURIAWEB hosting, you should check which PHP version the website used previously and which version is set at the new location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, an application on the previous server may have been run with a different PHP version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If PHP errors suddenly occur after a move, the PHP version is therefore one of the settings you should check.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Change PHP version before a major website update?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When both a major CMS update and a PHP migration are required, you should not make an unnecessarily large number of technical changes at the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A step-by-step approach facilitates error analysis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If an error occurs after several simultaneous changes, it is otherwise harder to determine which change was the cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical Tip:<\/strong> Make changes to critical websites as controlled as possible and test after every major step. This makes it much easier to attribute a problem to a specific change.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PHP version for WordPress<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In WordPress, the appropriate PHP version depends not only on WordPress itself, but also on the installed plugins, the theme, and any custom code that may be present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A current WordPress version can work with a modern PHP version, while a plugin that hasn't been updated for years will still cause an error.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Therefore, always check the entire installation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PHP version for older websites<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When dealing with older PHP applications, you should test a version upgrade with particular care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the website has not been updated for years, it may contain outdated functions, old libraries, or individually programmed components, for example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The fact that an older PHP version still runs the website does not mean that this configuration is sensible or secure in the long term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reset PHP version<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a new PHP version causes problems, you can use the MultiPHP Manager to select the previously used version again, provided it is still available on the server.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To do this, go again to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Software \u2192 MultiPHP Manager<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Select the relevant domain, choose the previous PHP version, and apply the setting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Test the website again afterwards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Switching back is diagnosis and interim solution<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a website only works after switching back, you have received an important clue about the cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The actual task then is to figure out which component is not compatible with the newer PHP version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Permanently clinging to an outdated PHP version should not be the standard solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">PHP version changed, but the problem persists<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a website error persists after switching back to the previous PHP version, the PHP version may not be the actual cause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then check other areas such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Error logs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>PHP settings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Files and Permissions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><code>.htaccess<\/code><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Application or CMS<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plugins or themes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not change multiple settings at the same time on a whim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended procedure for changing the PHP version<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check your website's PHP requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Update CMS, plugins, and theme as necessary.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure a current backup of an important production website.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Log in to cPanel.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Open <strong>Software \u2192 MultiPHP Manager<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Search for the relevant domain.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Note the previous PHP version.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Highlight exclusively the desired domain or domains.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Select the designated PHP version.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apply the change.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check the displayed PHP version.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Test the website immediately afterwards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check important subpages and functions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In case of problems, check the error message or the error log.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In case of an immediate incompatibility, temporarily switch back to the previous PHP version.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Recommended troubleshooting after a PHP upgrade<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check whether the error occurred immediately after the changeover.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Note the current and previous PHP versions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Save a visible error message.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check the error log.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Switch back to the previous PHP version for testing purposes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Test the website again.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is it working again? I am searching for incompatible components.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If the error persists, investigate other potential causes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do not change multiple PHP and website settings at the same time on suspicion.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Basic rule:<\/strong> Change the PHP version in a controlled manner, note down the previous version, and test immediately afterward. This allows you to quickly identify any potential incompatibility and clearly confirm or rule out the change as the cause.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When should you contact support?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your website stops working after a PHP update and you cannot clearly determine the cause, you should document the current state as precisely as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For an analysis, the following information is particularly helpful:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>affected domain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>previously used PHP version<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>newly selected PHP version<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>whether the website is working again with the previous version<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>exact error message<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Timing or connection to the PHP migration<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>used CMS or application<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>potentially affected function, plugin, or theme<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Do not transmit any passwords or other confidential access credentials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Summary<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can generally change the PHP version of a website in the CURIAWEB cPanel via <strong>Software \u2192 MultiPHP Manager<\/strong>. CURIAWEB recommends this approach for selecting and managing PHP versions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Carefully select the relevant domain, note the PHP version used previously, and then set the desired version supported by your application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Test the website right after the switch. Check not only the homepage, but also important subpages and functions. If an error occurs immediately after the change, you can temporarily switch back to the previous PHP version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the website works again afterwards, the actual incompatibility within the application should be investigated. Permanently using an outdated PHP version is not an ideal solution for software that can be updated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also, do not use multiple PHP management tools simultaneously. For the PHP version, the recommended method at CURIAWEB is: <strong>MultiPHP Manager<\/strong>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Die PHP-Version einer Website kannst du im CURIAWEB-cPanel selbst \u00e4ndern. CURIAWEB empfiehlt daf\u00fcr grunds\u00e4tzlich den MultiPHP-Manager. Damit kannst du f\u00fcr deine Domains gezielt festlegen, welche auf dem Server verf\u00fcgbare PHP-Version verwendet werden soll. Eine \u00c4nderung der PHP-Version kann beispielsweise erforderlich sein, wenn eine Website, ein CMS, ein Plugin oder eine andere PHP-Anwendung eine neuere Version [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_joinchat":[],"footnotes":""},"doc_category":[78],"doc_tag":[],"class_list":["post-22590","docs","type-docs","status-publish","hentry","doc_category-webhosting-cpanel"],"year_month":"2026-09","word_count":2992,"total_views":"6","reactions":{"happy":"0","normal":"0","sad":"0"},"author_info":{"name":"Silvio Mazenauer","author_nicename":"admin-curia","author_url":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/author\/admin-curia\/"},"doc_category_info":[{"term_name":"Webhosting &amp; cPanel","term_url":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/hilfe-kategorie\/webhosting-cpanel\/"}],"doc_tag_info":[],"knowledge_base_info":[],"knowledge_base_slug":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/docs\/22590","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/docs"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/docs"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=22590"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/docs\/22590\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":22592,"href":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/docs\/22590\/revisions\/22592"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=22590"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"doc_category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/doc_category?post=22590"},{"taxonomy":"doc_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.curiaweb.ch\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/doc_tag?post=22590"}],"curies":[{"name":"WP","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}