---
title: Why upgrade PHP
canonical: https://wpsecurityninja.com/docs/installation-and-usage/why-upgrade-php/
---
PHP is the language WordPress runs on. Security Ninja requires **PHP 7.4 or newer**. Prefer a current **PHP 8.x** release that your host still supports with security updates.

Many hosts default to PHP 8 already. Sites stuck on PHP 7.4 or older miss patches and often run slower.

## Why PHP 8 matters

1. **Security.** Older PHP branches stop receiving security fixes. Running them leaves known holes open.
2. **Speed.** PHP 8 typically runs WordPress faster than PHP 7.
3. **Compatibility.** Current plugins and themes target PHP 8. Staying on old PHP blocks updates.

Check your PHP version in hosting control panels, or in WordPress under **Tools → Site Health** (when available).

![Historical PHP supported versions chart from 2019](https://wpsecurityninja.com/media/2019/09/php-currently-supported-versions.webp)

That screenshot is from September 2019 and is only historical. Use your host’s current PHP list, or [php.net supported versions](https://www.php.net/supported-versions.php).

Ask your host or developer to move the site to a supported PHP 8 release. Test plugins and themes on staging first when you can.

> Before you switch, confirm critical plugins and the active theme list PHP 8 as compatible.