Important change in PHP requirements. Check if your store is running on PHP 8 and ensure its security.

If your store is running on PHP 7, you must upgrade to PHP 8. The PHP version directly affects how your store operates. PHP 8 is required to ensure compatibility with current software versions, smooth performance, and the ability to continue receiving updates. It also provides access to new features, better performance, and reduces the risk of issues related to server-side changes.

Why is upgrading to PHP 8 important?

Upgrading to PHP 8 directly impacts the operation and development of your store:

• compatibility with current versions of the store software
• ability to continue updates and further development
• better performance
• access to new features
• reduced risk of issues during server-side changes

Currently, the highest PHP version supported by SOTESHOP AI is PHP 8.3.x

Note! The store version is not the same as the PHP version. Although both currently use version number 8.x, they should not be confused.

How to change PHP on the server?

You can change the PHP version yourself in the hosting control panel where your store is hosted. First, review our guide and check which PHP version your store is currently using: Guide to upgrading PHP to version 8

Before changing the PHP version, make sure your SOTESHOP AI store is updated to the latest version 8.4.x (you can check this in the bottom-left corner of the admin panel).

If your store version is lower than SOTESHOP AI 8.4, we recommend using the service: Store update service

End of support for PHP 7.1

As of June 1, 2026, support for PHP 7.1.x will end, and stores running on PHP 7.1.x will no longer receive updates.

If you are still using PHP 7.1, you must first upgrade to PHP 7.4. You can use our professional technical support for upgrading to PHP 7.4 and PHP 8: Upgrade PHP from 7.1 to PHP 8

See also our blog post: SOTESHOP - support for PHP 7.4

Service for upgrading PHP from 7.x to PHP 8

If you want our team to handle the PHP upgrade for your store, we offer a dedicated service that includes a comprehensive upgrade process to PHP 8.3.x, along with ensuring proper store operation after the update.

As part of the service, we perform:

• ensuring the store is on the latest version,
• verification of the current PHP version,
• re-encoding customer data and adapting to new encryption standards (applies to stores running on PHP 7.1),
• changing PHP settings (contacting the administrator or modifying server settings),
• functional verification, including basic testing of the store and admin panel.

Learn more: PHP version upgrade service from 7.x to PHP 8

Summary

Upgrading to PHP 8 is an important step for the continued operation of your store. It ensures compatibility with current software, better performance, and access to updates and new features. For older versions, especially PHP 7.1, lack of support means no further updates. It is worth making this change now to avoid future issues and keep your store fully operational.

Related pages

• Guide to upgrading PHP to version 8
• Store update service
• SOTESHOP - support for PHP 7.4
• Upgrade PHP from 7.1 to PHP 8
• SOTESHOP AI documentation
• SOTESHOP AI online store