How to Use and Modify CloudLinux for PHP on Your Hosting Plan

CloudLinux is a robust platform that enhances server performance, security, and stability. If your hosting provider uses CloudLinux, you can fine-tune PHP settings, enable/disable extensions, and optimize your website’s performance. This guide explains how to use CloudLinux for PHP management, modify settings, enable extensions, and troubleshoot common issues.

1. What Is CloudLinux for PHP?

CloudLinux provides a user-friendly interface called PHP Selector that allows you to:

• Choose the PHP version for your website.
• Enable or disable PHP extensions.
• Customize PHP settings like memory limit, upload size, and execution time.

The PHP Selector ensures compatibility and flexibility, allowing websites to run different PHP versions on the same server.

2. How to Use CloudLinux for PHP Management

Step 1: Access the PHP Selector

1. Log in to your cPanel account.
2. Navigate to the Software section.
3. Click on Select PHP Version or CloudLinux PHP Selector.

Step 2: Choose the PHP Version

1. In the PHP Selector, select the domain or subdomain you want to manage.
2. From the dropdown menu, choose the desired PHP version (e.g., 7.4, 8.1).
3. Click Set as Current to apply the changes.

Step 3: Enable/Disable PHP Extensions

1. Scroll down to see the list of available PHP extensions.
2. Check the box next to the extension you want to enable (e.g., mysqli, curl).
3. Uncheck the box to disable an extension.
4. Click Save to apply the changes.

Step 4: Modify PHP Settings

1. Click on the Options tab.
2. Adjust settings such as:
   • memory_limit: Defines the maximum memory a script can use.
   • upload_max_filesize: Sets the maximum upload size.
   • max_execution_time: Limits the execution time of scripts.
   • post_max_size: Determines the maximum POST request size.
3. Click Save after making changes.

3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens if I select the wrong PHP version?

Some applications may stop working if they are not compatible with the selected PHP version. Switch back to a compatible version using the PHP Selector.

Q2: Can I use different PHP versions for multiple domains?

Yes, you can set different PHP versions for each domain or subdomain.

Q3: How do I check which PHP extensions my website needs?

Check your website’s documentation or error logs. Most CMS platforms like WordPress and Joomla specify the required extensions.

Q4: How can I reset all PHP settings to default?

Use the Reset to Default option in the PHP Selector to revert all changes.

4. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue 1: PHP Version Not Changing

• Cause: Browser cache or server propagation delay.
• Solution: Clear your browser cache and wait a few minutes for the changes to take effect.

Issue 2: Missing PHP Extensions

• Cause: The required extension is not available on the server.
• Solution: Contact your hosting provider to request the installation of the missing extension.

Issue 3: Website Displays Errors After Changing PHP Version

• Cause: Incompatibility between the website and the selected PHP version.
• Solution: Switch back to the previous version using the PHP Selector.

Issue 4: PHP Settings Not Applying

• Cause: Server restrictions or syntax errors in .htaccess.
• Solution:
  • Double-check your changes in the PHP Selector.
  • Review your .htaccess file for errors.

Issue 5: Memory Limit Errors

• Cause: Insufficient memory limit for heavy scripts.
• Solution: Increase the memory_limit setting in the PHP Selector.

5. Advanced Tips

Using .htaccess for PHP Settings

For more control, you can override PHP settings in your .htaccess file:

php_value memory_limit 512M  
php_value upload_max_filesize 100M  
php_value max_execution_time 300  

Note: Ensure your hosting provider allows .htaccess overrides.

Optimizing Performance with Opcache

Enable the Opcache extension to improve PHP performance by caching script bytecode:

1. In the PHP Selector, enable the opcache extension.
2. Configure opcache settings in the Options tab.

6. Conclusion

CloudLinux PHP Selector is a powerful tool that simplifies PHP management. Whether you’re adjusting PHP versions, enabling extensions, or customizing settings, this tool ensures your website runs smoothly. If you encounter any issues, consult the troubleshooting section or contact your hosting provider for support.