In Davidson Domains, each domain and subdomain may have its own associated version of PHP (the programming language used by WordPress and other applications). This allows flexibility in using older versions of PHP to run software, themes, plug-ins, etc. that may have compatibility problems with the latest version. However, as time passes, older versions of PHP become obsolete and no longer receive security updates, requiring updating your sites to the latest version. Set your preferred PHP version using the steps below.
A note about defaults and minimums: By default, all new domains and subdomains are set to Inherit the system PHP version — that is, to take the same setting as the system default. As of 1 July 2026, that is version 8.2. Version 7.4 is the minimum version available, but it is deprecated and slated for removal from the Domains system. By August 2026, version 7.4 (and any remaining 7.3 instances) will be removed, followed by version 8.0 on 1 September, and version 8.1 on 1 October. After that date, the minimum version of PHP available on the system will be 8.2, and the system default will be 8.3.
T&I strongly recommends that you test your software, themes, plug-ins, etc. with the latest versions of PHP (8.2 and 8.3), and manually update your PHP settings ahead of the scheduled changes. Any software found to be incompatible with PHP 8.2 should be either updated, or its use discontinued.
- Log in to Davidson Domains as usual, and open your Dashboard. Locate the Software section, and click the icon for MultiPHP Manager.
- In the MultiPHP Manager window, move down the section labeled Set PHP Version per Domain. From the list of domains, check the boxes for the ones you want to modify PHP for. Note that any listings bearing the Inherited flag are using the default system version of PHP.
- From the PHP Version menu, select the version of PHP you want associated with the selected domain(s). Click Apply.
- When the change is made, look for a success notification similar to the one shown below.
- Notice that the PHP version indicated in the domains list now reflects your chosen setting, and the Inherited flag is gone, indicating that you set this version manually.