In the ever-evolving world of web design, Elementor stands out as a powerful and user-friendly page builder for WordPress. However, users may occasionally encounter issues that Elementor Isn’t Running Because Php Is Outdated. One of the most common culprits is outdated PHP versions.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of updating PHP to ensure Elementor functions optimally on your WordPress site.

Understanding the Importance of PHP Updates for Elementor

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Before diving into the solution, it’s crucial to understand why keeping your PHP version up-to-date is essential for Elementor and your WordPress site in general.

Why PHP Versions Matter

PHP, the scripting language that powers WordPress, undergoes regular updates to improve performance, security, and compatibility. Elementor, being a sophisticated tool, requires a modern PHP environment to function correctly. Using an outdated PHP version can lead to various issues, including:

1. Elementor not loading or running properly
2. Slow website performance
3. Security vulnerabilities
4. Compatibility issues with other plugins and themes

Elementor’s PHP Requirements

As of 2024, Elementor recommends using PHP version 7.4 or higher for optimal performance. However, it’s always best to check the official Elementor website for the most up-to-date requirements, as they may change with new releases.

Common Elementor Issues Related to Outdated PHP

Users often encounter specific problems when running Elementor on outdated PHP versions. Some of these include:

1. Elementor Editor Not Loading: The visual editor fails to load, preventing you from designing your pages.
2. Elementor Shortcode Not Loading: Shortcodes created with Elementor don’t display correctly on the front end.
3. Elementor Toggle Not Showing Title: Toggle elements appear without their titles, disrupting the user experience.
4. Elementor Stuck on Loading: The editor gets stuck in an infinite loading loop.
5. Edit with Elementor Not Showing: The option to edit pages with Elementor disappears from the WordPress admin.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, updating your PHP version should be your first troubleshooting step.

How to Update PHP for WordPress

Updating PHP on your WordPress site involves a few steps. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process:

1. Check Your Current PHP Version

Before updating, you need to know your current PHP version. You can check this by:

1. Logging into your WordPress admin panel
2. Navigating to Tools > Site Health
3. Clicking on the “Info” tab
4. Looking for the “Server” section, where you’ll find your PHP version

2. Backup Your Website

How to Backup Your WordPress Site Before Updating PHP

Before making any significant changes to your WordPress site, such as updating PHP, it’s crucial to create a full backup. This ensures you can restore your site if anything goes wrong during the update process. Follow these steps to backup your WordPress site:

1. Backup Your WordPress Files

1. Connect to your website via FTP using a client like FileZilla.
2. Navigate to the root directory of your WordPress installation.
3. Download all files and folders to your local computer.

2. Backup Your WordPress Database

1. Log in to your WordPress admin panel.
2. Go to Tools > Export.
3. Choose “All content” and click “Download Export File”.

3. Use a WordPress Backup Plugin (Alternative Method)

If you prefer an automated solution:

1. Install and activate a backup plugin like UpdraftPlus or BackupBuddy.
2. Follow the plugin’s instructions to create a full backup of your site.

4. Verify Your Backup

1. Check that all files have been downloaded to your local computer.
2. Ensure the database export file is not corrupted.
3. If using a backup plugin, confirm that the backup process is completed successfully.

Remember: Store your backups in a secure location, separate from your hosting account.

By following these steps, you’ll have a safety net in place before proceeding with your PHP update.

Always create a full backup of your website before making any significant changes. This includes both your files and database. You can use plugins like UpdraftPlus or follow the step-by-step guide provided above to ensure a comprehensive backup.

3. Update PHP Through Your Hosting Provider

The process of updating PHP can vary depending on your hosting provider. Here are general steps for some popular hosting platforms:

cPanel Hosting:

1. Log in to your cPanel account
2. Look for the “Software” or “Programming” section
3. Click on “Select PHP Version”
4. Choose the latest stable PHP version (ideally 7.4 or higher)
5. Click “Set as current” to apply the changes

Managed WordPress Hosting:

Many managed WordPress hosts handle PHP updates automatically. However, you can usually request an update through their support channels if needed.

4. Verify the Update and Test Your Site

After updating PHP:

1. Return to the WordPress admin panel and recheck the PHP version (Tools > Site Health)
2. Visit your website’s frontend to ensure everything is functioning correctly
3. Test Elementor by opening the editor for a page or post

Troubleshooting Common Issues After PHP Update

Even after updating PHP, you might encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Elementor Shortcode Error

If you’re experiencing an Elementor shortcode error, try the following:

1. Clear your browser cache and WordPress cache
2. Deactivate all plugins except Elementor
3. Switch to a default WordPress theme
4. Reinstall Elementor

Elementor Not Loading After Update

If Elementor is still not loading after the PHP update:

1. Increase your PHP memory limit
2. Check for plugin conflicts
3. Ensure your WordPress version is up-to-date

Failed to Load Reloaded II

This error often occurs due to compatibility issues. Try these steps:

1. Update all plugins and themes
2. Disable and re-enable Elementor
3. Regenerate CSS files in Elementor > Tools > Regenerate CSS

Keeping Your WordPress Site Updated

Maintaining an up-to-date WordPress environment is crucial for optimal performance and security. Here are some best practices:

1. Regularly check for WordPress core updates
2. Keep all plugins and themes updated
3. Monitor your site’s speed and SEO performance
4. Use a staging environment to test updates before applying them to your live site

Elementor Hacks and Tips

Now that your PHP is updated and Elementor is running smoothly, here are some tips to enhance your Elementor experience:

1. Learn how to duplicate pages in Elementor for faster site-building
2. Explore Elementor AI for innovative design solutions
3. Understand how Elementor affects SEO to optimize your site’s performance
4. Compare Elementor with other page builders like Divi to make informed decisions

Conclusion

Updating PHP is a crucial step in resolving Elementor issues and ensuring your WordPress site runs smoothly. By following this guide, you can confidently update your PHP version and enjoy all the benefits of the latest Elementor features. Remember to always backup your site before making significant changes and stay informed about the latest updates in the WordPress ecosystem.

Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting with Elementor, the magic page builder, keeping your PHP version up-to-date is key to a seamless web design experience. If you’re new to Elementor, check out our guide on how to learn Elementor to kickstart your journey.

For more advanced users looking to optimize their workflow, explore our articles on fixing drag and drop issues in Elementor and using Elementor with any theme.

By staying up-to-date and leveraging the full power of Elementor, you’ll be well-equipped to create stunning websites that stand out in the digital landscape.