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Proposal: Dropping support for old PHP versions via a fixed schedule
While most people here will probably mostly know me as a (PHPPHPThe web scripting language in which WordPress is primarily architected. WordPress requires PHP 7.4 or higher) developer, I actually have a background in business studies, so when Matt Mullenweg reached out to me to continue the conversation about WordPress dropping support for older PHP versions in an in-person call, I decided to put my business acumen to use and see if I could come up with a proposal which would make sense from a business point of view for all parties involved, be it the amazing contributors to the WordPress project, the web hosts, the pluginPluginA plugin is a piece of software containing a group of functions that can be added to a WordPress website. They can extend functionality or add new features to your WordPress websites. WordPress plugins are written in the PHP programming language and integrate seamlessly with WordPress. These can be free in the WordPress.org Plugin Directory https://wordpress.org/plugins/ or can be cost-based plugin from a third-party and theme builders, the web agencies and the users who often run their business via their WordPress website.
In short, I’m proposing a fixed schedule in which every PHP version is supported for five years. Additionally each WordPress release will receive security updates for four years. In effect, this means that users, at a stretch, would be able to run on one specific PHP version for nine years.
A fixed schedule will make this whole process transparent and will allow all parties to plan for the version drops accordingly.
With Matt’s blessing, I’m posting this proposal here on Make to gauge the reactions of the wider community to my idea.
Please feel very invited to leave a comment whether you agree with the proposal or not. Mentioning what your involvement is with WordPress and how this proposal will impact you in a positive or negative way, would be very valuable input for further discussions on this.
Chicken vs egg
The situation we are currently in, is basically one of “Which came first, the chicken or the egg ?”.
