A major release of WordPress launches today with version 5.0, the biggest change to WordPress for 4 years.
Along with the major update to WordPress, PHP (the programming language that powers WordPress) will be ending security support for PHP 5.6 and 7.0 this month.
WordPress 5
While there’s many changes to WordPress 5, the most dramatic difference will be that of the new “Gutenberg” editor which aims to bring big improvements so users of all levels can easily create engaging content and more complex page layouts.
This significant core change to WordPress means your website could have complications when you next upgrade, more so if your website relies on older themes or plugins. It’s paramount that you take backups before you apply the latest WordPress update and then test your website works as intended.
If you’re unsure, get in touch for help and recommendations
If you’re a WooCommerce user there have already been notices to say it’s important that you update to the latest version of the WooCommerce plugin before you upgrade to WordPress 5.
Security updates for PHP 5.6+7.0
So with security support ending for these versions of PHP, if your website is still running on an older version of PHP your website may be at greater chance of security risks.
We can easily upgrade your hosting to PHP 7.2 (All new clients have this version by default) but be aware your website may not be compatible to run on PHP 7.2.
In relation to WordPress, while it works well on PHP 7.2 (It’s a recommended requirement) be aware your theme or plugin may NOT be compatible.
Our clients can easily upgrade to PHP 7.2 with just a couple of clicks, assuming it’s safe to do so.