Enable PHP 5.3 on Your Hosting Account

What is a PHP version?

PHP is the language many websites use. Like phone apps, it comes in versions. Old scripts may break on a new version, and new scripts may need a new version. Choosing the version is like choosing which engine your site runs on.

Not every server still offers PHP 5.3. Ask Hostvento support if it is on your plan. If it is not, they can tell you the oldest version available.

Back up first

Changing the version can break your site. Take a full backup of your files and your database before you start.

Steps in cPanel

1. Log in to your hosting control panel.
2. Look for MultiPHP Manager, Select PHP Version or PHP Selector. Click it.
3. If you see MultiPHP Manager, tick the box next to your domain.
4. In the PHP Version drop-down, choose 5.3 if it is listed.
5. Click Apply.
6. If you see Select PHP Version instead, pick 5.3 from the drop-down at the top and click Set as current.
7. Check the Extensions list. Tick any parts your site needs, like mysql or gd.

Check that it worked

1. Create a file named info.php in public_html with this line:

   <?php phpinfo(); ?>

2. Open https://yourdomain.com/info.php.
3. The version is shown at the top.
4. Delete info.php afterwards.

Using .htaccess instead

Some plans use a handler line in .htaccess. Hostvento support can give you the exact line for your plan. Do not guess it, as a wrong line can cause a 500 error.

If the site breaks

• Switch back to the earlier PHP version.
• Restore your backup if files were changed.
• Open a ticket with the error message through the support page.

Quick recap

• PHP 5.3 is old and unsafe. Use it only when needed.
• Back up before you change anything.
• Use MultiPHP Manager or Select PHP Version.
• Check the version with a phpinfo page, then delete it.
• Ask support if 5.3 is not listed.