PHP Security

Understanding the impact of PHP versions

Discover why using a recent version of PHP is crucial for the security and performance of your websites

Commencer maintenant

Understanding PHP lifecycle

Why PHP version matters

Each PHP version follows a specific lifecycle, going through different support phases before reaching its end of life. Using an unsupported version exposes your site to major security risks.

Active Support

For about 2 years after its release, the version receives regular bug and security fixes.

Security Fixes Only

For about 1 additional year, only critical security fixes are published.

End of Life (EOL)

After this period, no updates are published, even for critical vulnerabilities.

Current status

PHP versions status

Check the support status of current PHP versions and plan your updates accordingly.

VersionRelease dateActive support endEnd of lifeStatus
PHP 8.520 novembre 202531 décembre 202731 décembre 2029Active support
PHP 8.421 novembre 202431 décembre 202631 décembre 2028Active support
PHP 8.323 novembre 202331 décembre 202531 décembre 2027Active support
PHP 8.28 décembre 202231 décembre 202431 décembre 2026Security fixes only
PHP 8.125 novembre 202125 novembre 202331 décembre 2025Security fixes only
PHP 8.026 novembre 202026 novembre 202226 novembre 2023End of life (unsupported)
PHP 7.428 novembre 201928 novembre 202128 novembre 2022End of life (unsupported)
PHP 7.36 décembre 20186 décembre 20206 décembre 2021End of life (unsupported)
PHP 7.230 novembre 201730 novembre 201930 novembre 2020End of life (unsupported)
Active support
Security fixes only
End of life (unsupported)

Risks and implications

Why update PHP?

Using an outdated PHP version presents several risks for your website.

Security vulnerabilities

Outdated versions no longer receive security patches, exposing your site to attacks.

Limited compatibility

Newer versions of WordPress and plugins require recent PHP versions to function properly.

Reduced performance

Recent PHP versions offer significant performance improvements, up to 3x faster than older versions.

Limited support

Developers cannot effectively help you if you are using an outdated version of PHP.

Recommendations

How to stay up to date

Follow these tips to keep your PHP environment up to date and secure.

  • 1

    Check your current version

    Use the phpinfo() function or our scan tool to determine which PHP version you are currently using.

  • 2

    Plan your updates

    Schedule regular updates to move to a supported version. Ideally, always use the latest stable version.

  • 3

    Test compatibility

    Before updating in production, test your site in a development environment to verify compatibility with all your plugins and themes.

  • 4

    Make backups

    Always back up your site before proceeding with a major PHP update.

  • 5

    Monitor regularly

    SecuDojo can help you monitor the PHP version of your sites and alert you when an update is needed.

Monitor your PHP security

Use SecuDojo to analyze your WordPress sites and identify PHP-related security issues

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