Everything with this WordPress installation is updated and working as well as is presently possible. Updates are delivered directly from WordPress, and Bluehost’s plugin is integrated with the WordPress Dashboard. I am running the version of the PHP program interpreter that WordPress says it supports. Which is saying something, considering the technical struggles I had, and how very close I was to packing it in and walking away. So I am concerned by this message from Bluehost.
Hi DOUGLAS,
In an ongoing effort to bring you the very best products and services, Bluehost is excited to announce that we will be upgrading our servers to newer versions of PHP. In addition to improved data processing, which can boost site speed and performance, you also gain increased security. Newer versions of PHP have more frequent security updates to help protect your site against unwanted hacks or malware.
When will it happen?
At some point during the upgrade window, March 2 to March 4, 2022, your account will be updated, and older versions of PHP will no longer be supported. You may experience a brief disruption in service, but we will work to upgrade your site quickly with the most updated version of PHP software your website will support.
Do I need to take any action?
To avoid a negative impact to your site, we recommend that you upgrade all of your web installations to the newest PHP software available before we move your account.
If you look at the link above, WordPress says it supports PHP 7. Bluehost intends to update to PHP 8, as stated here. This is what WordPress developers say about PHP 8.
WordPress is not fully compatible with PHP 8.0 or 8.1.
After the update, will Prattling Before the Pratfall go offline? Will the .htaccess file for the Apache HTTP service continue to work? Will the SQL database play nice with the updated PHP? Honestly, based on past experience I expect all heck to break loose. So for posterity here is my screen as it appears at this moment, with everything working and Bluehost about to bill me this month to renew for another year.
Follow-up: I pre-emptively updated to PHP 8.0 manually, and the site has lived to tell the tale.
I compare the site’s renewed health to my detached retina, regaining excellent vision after seeing only blood and wavy lines.
Still looking good!