How to Change Your Domain’s PHP Version in cPanel (Simple Tutorial)
Different websites need different PHP versions to run smoothly. Some apps work better with the latest PHP, while others need an older version for compatibility. Thankfully, cPanel makes it easy to switch PHP versions for your domain without affecting other websites on the same hosting account.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to change your domain’s PHP version in cPanel, step by step.
✅ Why Change Your PHP Version?
- 🧱 Compatibility: Ensure your CMS or scripts run on the right PHP version
- ⚡ Speed: Newer versions of PHP are often faster and more optimized
- 🔒 Security: Older PHP versions may be vulnerable to attacks
- 🧪 Testing: Developers can test websites on different PHP versions
🚀 Step-by-Step: Change PHP Version in cPanel
Step 1: Log in to cPanel
Go to your cPanel URL (e.g., yourdomain.com:2083
) or access it via your hosting dashboard.
Step 2: Locate Select PHP Version
Scroll down to the Software section and click Select PHP Version.
Note: In some themes, this may appear as MultiPHP Manager.
Step 3: Choose the Domain
If you’re using MultiPHP Manager:
- You’ll see a list of domains.
- Tick the checkbox next to the domain you want to change.
- In the right-hand dropdown, select your desired PHP version.
- Click Apply.
If you’re using the Select PHP Version tool:
- You’ll see the current version and a dropdown menu.
- Choose the version (e.g., 8.2, 8.1, 7.4, etc.).
- Click Set as current to apply.
💡 How to Know Which PHP Version to Use?
- WordPress users: PHP 8.0 or 8.1 is ideal for most modern themes/plugins.
- Older apps/scripts: May require PHP 7.4 or earlier.
- Always check your application’s documentation or test compatibility after changing.
⚠️ What Happens After Changing PHP?
- Your website will immediately start using the new PHP version.
- If something breaks, simply revert to the previous version.
- You can also install or manage PHP extensions via the same panel.
🔗 Related Articles
- How to Log in to cPanel for the First Time
- How to Create and Manage Email Accounts in cPanel
- How to Use cPanel’s Backup Wizard to Back Up Your Website
- How to Restore a Backup in cPanel
Switching PHP versions in cPanel is quick and safe, giving you control over how your site performs. Whether you need to upgrade for speed or downgrade for compatibility, cPanel gives you the flexibility to do it in minutes.
Need expert help choosing the right PHP version? Contact our support team here.