PHP is considered one of the top programming tools for website development, being used by over 73% of all web services. It is constantly being upgraded and improved, adapting to new web demands. If your website is running on a version of PHP lower than 8.0, then it is more than likely outdated and unsupported. With the latest version, 8.4.12, having been released at the end of August, there’s no better time to stay up to date.
What is PHP
PHP is the programming language that websites are built on, powering everything from blogs to forms. Essentially, it’s the backbone of your site, allowing you to create dynamic page content, manage cookies and collect data. It’s renowned for being flexible and easy to use, compatible with all major operating systems
The Importance of Updating
Security
PHP is not inherently insecure, but with its popularity online, it’s often a target for hackers. With new updates come new and improved security features, patching up any safety concerns. The latest version will reduce cyber attacks by adapting to new threats and updating old, unsafe code. Staying up to date will keep you protected and reduce reputational damage – you should never leave your website vulnerable.
Website Speed and SEO
With the newest update, you will see a significant boost in your website’s performance and speed. A faster, more efficient website will help you retain visitors with quicker loading times. Even more importantly, a speedy site will be rewarded by search engines. The faster your pages load, the more Google will be able to crawl, allowing your site to be indexed faster and boosting SEO.
Plugins
Outdated PHP will put the plugins on your site at risk. These plugins are developed and designed to function with the latest PHP version, so new updates may reduce compatibility. This means expression of interest and contact forms will no longer work, limiting access to your client’s responses and queries. With older versions, you can’t always access support when things go wrong, so it’s essential that you update before your site begins to malfunction.
New Features
PHP updates don’t just fix bugs; they introduce new and advanced features. For example, with PHP 8.4 came increased code quality through property hooks and asymmetric visibility. Upgrading and improving your site is invaluable – you should always be enhancing user experience.
How to Update Your PHP
Updating your PHP does not have to be a headache; at Daisy Digital we can help you every step of the way. It is important to make sure that you have a backed-up version of your website prior to updating your PHP, in case something goes wrong. If you are an existing client, contact us today for a quote to ensure your website runs smoothly and securely. We will assess each unique site, with prices varying depending on its size. We are always committed to helping your website reach its full potential.
