How to Change PHP Version in Bluehost(Step-by-Step Tutorial)

This guide shows you how to change the PHP version in Bluehost with easy steps.

Before that, let me tell you why the PHP version is important for WordPress.

Actually, PHP is the scripting language that powers Wordpress and many other websites. Every request received at your site is processed through PHP, so if you don't change to the latest version, it will hurt your site performance and stability.

So, updating to the latest version is essential.

If you update to the latest version, your site will improve its performance, compatibility, and security.

Now, lets change the PHP version.

Prerequisites

• Take a quick backup(files and database).
• Make sure that your plugins and themes will support the latest PHP version, and keep them updated

Steps to Change PHP Version in Bluehost.

Follow each line one by one to change the version, never miss a step. If you miss it, you will be confused.

Step 1: Log in to your Bluehost Account

Visit your Bluehost account. To sign in, enter your username and password to access your Bluehost hosting dashboard.

You will receive a verification code in your email, enter it, and sign in to your Bluehost dashboard.

Step 2: Go to the Websites Menu

In the Bluehost dashboard, in the left side menu, you will see the website option. Click it.

Now, you will see a SETTINGS option on the right side, click it.

Step 3: Click the Advanced Option

You will find an ADVANCED option in the settings menu. Click it.

Next, under the advanced option, you will see a CHANGE VERSION button. Click it to view the version.

You can see in the image below, that it warns to change the version to the latest to improve the site speed and security.

Step 4: Select a PHP Version and Click Apply

Now you have to select the Latest Version, which is already mentioned as shown in the image below.

Once you choose the PHP version, click the APPLY button to finish the settings.

The version will change immediately, and you will get a notification.

How to Verify if the PHP Version Has Changed?

Verifying the PHP version is very simple. Just follow these steps.

1. Go to your WordPress dashboard
2. Click on Tools
3. Select Site Health
4. Open the Info tab

5. Scroll down and click on the server
6. Check the PHP version listed there

That’s it! Here you can now confirm whether your PHP version has changed.

Why don't you use Outdated PHP Versions?

To be honest, running an old version is safe, but it has some risks. Here they are.

• If you use an older version, the site will be vulnerable, and there will be a high chance of attacks with no updates.
• The old version will struggle to handle traffic.
• Hosting providers like Bluehost will force you to upgrade your site if you don't update PHP yourself.
• Most of the modern(latest) plugins and themes won't work on older PHP versions, which will lead to compatibility issues.

This is why you have to update the PHP version to the latest.

Conclusion

In this guide, I walked you through how to change the PHP version in Bluehost, how to verify it, and the risks of using an outdated PHP version.

If you face any issues while changing the PHP version or feel confused, don't worry, we are here to help.

Just share your issue or question in the comments, and we will clear it up right away.