WordPress PHP update checklist: backups, compatibility and testing

Prepare recovery and responsibilities

Record PHP, WordPress, themes, plugins and custom changes. Back up both database and files, and confirm the recovery point and restoration method.

For stores and booking sites, decide how to preserve data created during maintenance. Restoring an old database can lose new orders or reservations.

Test compatibility deliberately

Check component vendors’ supported PHP versions. Automated compatibility tools cannot establish that all custom code and integrations work.

Use a staging environment where possible, with payments and outbound messages isolated from production. Agree the operator, maintenance window and recovery criteria.

Test real customer journeys

Verify public pages, search and administration, then enquiries including receipt, bookings, checkout and integrations. A cached page rendering is insufficient evidence.

Record failures and changes. If recovery requires an earlier runtime, coordinate the security implications and a supported remedy rather than leaving an unpatched version in service.

Questions and answers

Should we always select the newest branch?

Choose a patched runtime supported by your host and application stack. Compatibility still needs verification.

Can a small business ask for help?

Yes. Start with the URL, provider and concern. Scope and cost are agreed before work.

Official references

• ja.wordpress.org — Official PHP configuration guide ↗
• developer.wordpress.org — Backup documentation ↗
• www.php.net — PHP migration guide ↗

Official guidance and interfaces can change. Confirm your actual plan, configuration and the supplier’s latest notice. This guide does not certify the security or patch status of any individual environment.