Upgrading from PHP 5.2 to PHP 5.4 on your BlueHost Account

If you got the following notice from BlueHost, you need to act right away. If you are using the PHP 5.2  (single php.ini) version of the software, you need to update to 5.4 Single php.ini.

To do this, follow the instructions in their email.

PHP, the web programming language, has several different versions and we will be phasing out PHP version 5.2 in the near future as it has been unsupported by its creators for several years now, along with PHP 5.3. Your account is currently using version 5.2/5.3 and you are strongly encouraged to switch to version 5.4 within the next 7 days. If you do not then your account will be automatically upgraded to 5.4 along with any extensions you have chosen to include in your current 5.2/5.3 configuration.

You can upgrade PHP by navigating to your cPanel, going to the category Software/Services and clicking the link PHP Config. From there, scroll down and select the PHP 5.4 Single php.ini option.

Once you have your update saved, look at your site. Check all the links, test all the forms, look at it visually. If you have lost some functionality. Call me. We may have used a plugin that is not compatible with PHP 5.4. There is a process to go through to find out the culprit plugin and choose an alternative if necessary.

I did this today for two clients. One site had no issue, the other needs a new calendar feature.

You should also make sure your WordPress version is the most up-to-date version. Previous versions have been known to allow hackers into your site. And you don’t want that!

Let me know if you need my help. 952-484-6015
Michelle Aspelin
Mindshare Marketing & Implementation Services LLC