PHP 8.2 Upgrade with MariaDB ( 3rd October 2024)
thehostingpool is committed to providing the latest software on web servers for optimum performance and security. Part of this commitment involves our technicians maintaining multiple different PHP versions. Each PHP version has its own lifespan: a beta version, a stable launch, numerous minor updates and security patches, and finally decommissioning.
From time to time, we must review the database server and PHP version lifespans, and upgrade MySQL / MariaDB and set a new default PHP version on your server. The default PHP is the implicit version used by accounts/domains, provided that an account or domain doesn’t have a specific version selected.
This essential upgrade is scheduled to be actioned on :
Upgrade Date & Time
Tuesday, 3rd OCTOBER 2024 @ 2 pm (14:00) GMT+1
We estimate the upgrade work to take approximately 30 to 60 minutes, with a possible total downtime of approximately 5 to 15 minutes.
Upgrade Recommendation
Our advice is to match the PHP versions offered by thehostingpool (see “PHP Version Lifespan (including Launch Date and End-of-Life) ” table) and we recommend that on your CPanel you pro-actively review your account(s) and any websites to make sure your websites are kept up to date and compatible.
Recommended default PHP version: 8.2
Recommended database server: MariaDB 10.6
To minimise any potential downtime, we would move accounts on discontinued PHP versions to the next oldest available PHP version, in order to maximise the chance of continuing to work and allowing the website developers time to update their website software.
Hold on, what’s PHP again?
PHP is a server-side scripting language designed for web development but also used as a general-purpose programming language. PHP is used by the vast majority of web sites hosted by thehostingpool.
If your website uses old software (more than a year or two since the last update), it may not be compatible with PHP 8.2. You should always use the latest up-to-date website software for performance and security.
What about MariaDB?
MariaDB is a database server with improved query optimisation and recommended for software like WordPress. It is a drop-in replacement for MySQL; it’s open source and fully compatible. This upgrade will boost website speed and performance.
As of Q3 2024, MariaDB is the default database server for cPanel servers: MariaDB Server to Become Default Database in cPanel
What might go wrong?
We offer a range of PHP versions, so if your website software isn’t compatible with one version, you can always switch to another. Issues are more likely to arise if website software has not been kept updated and is many years behind.
Please do check with your IT person or web developer! Every website is different, and website software, themes, and plugins may require unique changes to continue functioning properly.
