Frequently the easiest gain available.
WHY IT MATTERS
Newer PHP versions are substantially faster than older ones.
The difference can be considerable on a busy site, and it costs nothing.
THE SECURITY POINT
Old versions stop receiving security updates. Running an unsupported version is a risk regardless of speed.
HOW TO CHECK YOUR VERSION
cPanel shows it. Your site's admin area may also display it.
HOW TO CHANGE IT
cPanel has a PHP version selector.
Change it, then test your site thoroughly.
WHAT TO DO FIRST
Back up.
Check your applications and plugins support the version you are moving to.
WHAT CAN BREAK
Old plugins and themes using removed functions Custom code written years ago
HOW TO TEST
Change the version, then load every page type: homepage, a post, a product, the checkout, any form.
Check the error log.
IF SOMETHING BREAKS
Change back immediately, then identify the offending component.
