Academic Coursework Linux Environment: PHP Upgrades and WordPress Updates

Tags WordPress PHP
Topics Answered in this Article
PHP upgrades on the Public Linux Environment
WordPress compatibility with newer PHP versions
Preparing WordPress sites for PHP upgrades
Updating WordPress on custom or vanity URLs
Updating WordPress on VolWeb URLs
WordPress security and maintenance responsibilities
Deleting unused websites

Overview

This article explains how PHP upgrades on the Public Linux Environment may affect WordPress websites and outlines steps website owners can take to help maintain site availability. It applies to individuals listed as owners of websites hosted on the Public Linux Environment.

Instructions

Prepare for PHP upgrades on the Public Linux Environment

OIT periodically upgrades PHP on the Public Linux Environment to newer supported versions. Older versions of WordPress may not function correctly after these upgrades.

To help reduce service disruption, website owners can take the following actions when a PHP upgrade is announced.

  1. Check the version of WordPress running on your site.
    • If the site is running the latest version of WordPress, no further action may be needed.
  2. If the site is not running the latest version of WordPress, update WordPress prior to the PHP upgrade.

Update WordPress for custom or vanity URLs

This applies to sites using custom or vanity URLs, such as example.utk.edu or example.tennessee.edu.

  1. Sign in to the WordPress dashboard for your site.
  2. Update the WordPress core software.
  3. Update all installed WordPress plugins.

Update WordPress for VolWeb URLs

This applies to sites using VolWeb URLs, such as volweb.utk.edu/~netid or volweb2.utk.edu/~netid.

  1. Apply WordPress updates manually using the following guides:

Remove a site that is no longer in use

If a website hosted on the Public Linux Environment is no longer needed, submit an online request to delete the site.

Troubleshooting

Website is unavailable after a PHP upgrade

  1. Verify the WordPress version installed on the site.
  2. Update WordPress to the latest supported version.
  3. Update all WordPress plugins to compatible versions.

Additional Information

OIT has observed an increase in security breaches targeting WordPress sites. Keeping WordPress and associated plugins up to date can help reduce security risks.

OIT regularly updates Academic LAMP components. Website owners are responsible for the ongoing maintenance of WordPress core software and associated plugins.

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