{"id":3533,"date":"2025-02-25T02:12:43","date_gmt":"2025-02-25T02:12:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.help.com\/guide\/?p=3533"},"modified":"2026-04-01T02:32:30","modified_gmt":"2026-04-01T02:32:30","slug":"what-is-php-and-how-does-it-affect-your-website","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/php-8-3","title":{"rendered":"What is PHP, and How Does it Affect your Website?\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>PHP, or <em>Hypertext Preprocessor,<\/em> is a powerful scripting language that developers use to build and manage websites. It&#8217;s not just a tool for collecting form data or managing user access; it&#8217;s a language that empowers developers to create and maintain robust websites.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>PHP maintenance is crucial, and it offers several benefits to website owners and managers. It&#8217;s not just about understanding PHP; it&#8217;s about taking responsibility for your website&#8217;s performance and security by staying proactive with updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PHP-feature-image-1200x630-02-SEPT-2025-1-1-1024x538.png\" alt=\"Woman holding a laptop pointing upwards towards website language that benefits small businesses.\" class=\"wp-image-4140\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PHP-feature-image-1200x630-02-SEPT-2025-1-1-1024x538.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PHP-feature-image-1200x630-02-SEPT-2025-1-1-300x158.png 300w, https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PHP-feature-image-1200x630-02-SEPT-2025-1-1-768x403.png 768w, https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PHP-feature-image-1200x630-02-SEPT-2025-1-1.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Features of PHP 8.3 and How It Helps Websites<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><em>Typed class constants<\/em><\/strong> allow developers to define class constants with specific data, helping prevent type-related bugs and making websites more stable.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>Deep cloning of read-only properties<\/em> <\/strong>improves efficiency in object-oriented programming and reduces errors in web applications.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>Improved performance<\/em> <\/strong>loads websites faster, improving user experience, SEO rankings, and overall performance optimisation.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>Better error handling<\/em><\/strong><strong> <\/strong>by giving developers more detailed error messages, reducing downtime, and improving site reliability.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><em>New random extension features<\/em><\/strong> include more secure and efficient random number generation, password resets, and captchas.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>PHP 8.3 Helps your Website Speed and Security<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Faster Load Times:<\/strong> Optimized performance and JIT improvements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Better Security:<\/strong> Safer random numbers, better error handling, and stricter typing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Easier Development:<\/strong> Cleaner, readable code with fewer bugs, better for back-end development.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is <strong>PHP 8.3<\/strong> a Major Update?\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.php.net\/releases\/8.3\/en.php#:~:text=PHP%208.3%20is%20a%20major,bug%20fixes%2C%20and%20general%20cleanup.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The PHP 8.3 release notes<\/a> state that this version is a major update because it introduces several enhancements that improve type safety, performance, and the developer experience.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Extended details relating to the key features mentioned above are:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. Typed Class Constants<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before PHP 8.3, class constants lacked type declarations, leading to unintended type mismatches. With this update, developers can explicitly declare types for class constants, ensuring consistency and reducing the risk of errors. This enhancement extends to interface, trait, and enum constants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>2. Deep-Cloning of Read-only Properties<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>PHP 8.3 addresses limitations with read-only properties by introducing deep cloning support. Previously, attempting to clone an object with read-only properties could result in errors; however, the new deep-cloning capability allows for creating exact copies of objects, including their read-only properties, without violating immutability constraints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Enhanced Randomness Functionality<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Random extension in PHP 8.3 additions provide developers with more robust and flexible tools for generating random data, enhancing security and functionality in applications that rely on randomisation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>6. Performance Improvements and Bug Fixes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As with previous major releases, PHP 8.3 includes numerous performance enhancements and bug fixes, contributing to more efficient code execution and a more stable development environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>These advancements make PHP 8.3 a substantial update, offering developers improved tools and features to write more robust, efficient, and maintainable code.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is PHP 8.3 Good for Website Security?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>PHP has several security issues, especially when developers do not follow best practices. Here are our Top 3 common security vulnerabilities in PHP applications:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>1. SQL Injection<\/strong><br><br>SQL stands for Structured Query Language, a programming language for storing and querying data in databases. This feature is vulnerable to attackers who can hack into a website\u2019s database, exposing private information, passwords, credit card details, and other data. Hackers can also modify this data, enabling them to enter the server and infiltrate the company\u2019s back-end systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>PHP users and developers can mitigate this risk by adopting best-practice coding and preventive maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>&nbsp;2. <\/strong><strong>Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\">According to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/owasp.org\/www-community\/attacks\/xss\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OWASP<\/a>, a worldwide cybersecurity resource provider,\u00a0<em>Cross-Site Scripting<\/em>\u00a0is \u201cmalicious content sent to the web browser\u2026that commonly transmits private data, like cookies or other session information, to the attacker.\u201d<\/span> During this process, the user is redirected to other web content controlled by the attacker, who then gains the upper hand to conduct additional fraudulent activities on the user&#8217;s hardware and software.<br><br>PHP developers and coders should regularly test for cross-site scripting to reduce security vulnerabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>3. Session Hijacking<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Session hijacking is just as it sounds &#8211; a malicious online attacker takes over a user&#8217;s web session by impersonating another user. Once the attacker gains access, they can review private conversations. If an attacker hijacked a Google account, they would gain access to their Gmail and could send a password request to the victim&#8217;s email, gaining access to more personal information.<br><br><em>Phishing occurs <\/em>when users receive a message from a seemingly known and reputable company (with a similar logo and website layout) that is a mimic company controlled by an attacker. Users unknowingly disclose private information, leading to financial losses and potential identity theft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>PHP also helps<strong> <\/strong>secure users\u2019 cookies, which are often the entry point for this type of cyberattack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/www.help.com\/uploads\/2025\/02\/php_8.3_2_1200x630-02-1024x538.webp\" alt=\"SQL injection attack diagram.\" class=\"wp-image-3537\" style=\"width:1220px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/php_8.3_2_1200x630-02-1024x538.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/php_8.3_2_1200x630-02-300x158.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/php_8.3_2_1200x630-02-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/php_8.3_2_1200x630-02.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is PHP 8.3 Good for Performance Optimisation?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>PHP improves optimisation in several ways, both at the code level and through server configurations. Here are some key techniques and features that enhance PHP performance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Opcode Caching improves speed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Improved memory garbage collection frees up memory that is no longer referenced by code.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Using faster data structures is ideal for managing high memory usage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Efficient file handling with the ability to retrieve data files more easily.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Enhanced file compression capabilities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Optimised image file downloads.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Version optimisations allow PHP applications to run faster, consume fewer resources, and provide a better website user experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who Updates PHP on Behalf of a Website User?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Typically, the following professionals provide PHP update support for websites:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Web Developer<\/strong> \u2013 If the website was custom-built, the original developer or a hired PHP developer will update the PHP version and ensure compatibility with the site&#8217;s code.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Web Hosting Provider<\/strong> \u2013 Many hosting companies provide automatic PHP updates or allow customers to update PHP via the hosting control panel (e.g., cPanel, Plesk). Some managed hosting services handle this for you. Help.com&nbsp; will do this for you!<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Website Maintenance Provider<\/strong> \u2013 If the customer has a maintenance contract, the service provider or agency responsible for the website will handle PHP updates.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>IT Department (for larger businesses)<\/strong> \u2013 An in-house IT team or web administrator may handle PHP updates and server maintenance.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Freelancer or Agency<\/strong> \u2013 If the website owner lacks technical knowledge, they may hire a freelance developer or web agency to perform the updates and ensure everything runs smoothly.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Will my website break if I don\u2019t update PHP?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No, your website will not break. However, using an older PHP version may make your site vulnerable to security breaches. Your web hosting provider should support the current PHP version. Before updating, test your website on a newer PHP version in a testing environment and ensure all add-ons and plug-ins are compatible. If not, they may need to be reinstalled with the latest version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does PHP deprecation mean?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Help.com provides customers with an auto-reminder and an updated version link, often with a single button click. Technically, we can\u2019t upgrade the client because doing so could cause breakage due to deprecations. A deprecation refers to a feature or function that is no longer recommended and is scheduled for removal. While deprecated features still work in current versions, developers are encouraged to update their code and use alternatives before removing them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Are there security risks if I don\u2019t update PHP?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes. Using an outdated version of PHP compromises your website&#8217;s security and makes it susceptible to cyberattacks. Cybercriminals often attack sites without security because they are easy targets.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I need to update PHP on my website manually?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to update your website&#8217;s PHP manually, you should create a backup to restore the site if needed. Next, verify your current PHP version in your server management dashboard. Check the compatibility of your plug-ins and create a staging site to test usability. Then, clear your site&#8217;s cache to ensure all changes take effect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do I know if I need to update?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Most PHP releases have a 2-year active support cycle and another 2 years of security support (for critical issues only). Upgrades can happen anytime after the 2-year active support period, and for PHP 8.3, upgrades to PHP 8.4 can happen later this year, after Dec 31st, 2025. View upgrade timelines directly on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.php.net\/supported-versions.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">PHP website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><strong>Help.com.au\u2019s friendly support team is available for LIVE CHAT to assist with your web hosting needs.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>PHP, or Hypertext Preprocessor, is a powerful scripting language that developers use to build and manage websites. It&#8217;s not just a tool for collecting form &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"What is PHP, and How Does it Affect your Website?\u00a0\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"http:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/php-8-3#more-3533\" aria-label=\"Read more about What is PHP, and How Does it Affect your Website?\u00a0\">Read More&#8230;<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":7,"featured_media":4135,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[14],"class_list":["post-3533","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-domains","tag-php-8-3","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3533","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/7"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3533"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3533\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4143,"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3533\/revisions\/4143"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4135"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3533"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3533"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.help.com.au\/guide\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3533"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}