PHP, like all software, gets updated over time to patch security issues and improve its features. And like other software, it’s important to keep your PHP version up to date.
Updating your PHP version
In most cases, you cannot update the PHP version yourself and need to contact your host about this. The upgrade process is an easy process and should be something your host can do for you without impacting your website or charging you a fee. Here’s a letter you can send to your hosting company:
Dear host,
I’m running a website on one of your servers the theme system have recommended using at least PHP 5.6. WordPress, the content management system that the theme uses, has listed PHP 7 as the recommended version on their requirements page: https://wordpress.org/about/requirements/
Can you please let me know if my hosting supports PHP 5.6 or higher and how I can upgrade?
Looking forward to your reply.
My host doesn’t support PHP 5.6
If your host doesn’t support PHP 5.6 or higher, we recommend you find a host that does. If you contact another host, be sure to ask them which PHP version your website will run on before purchasing.
See more: How to Choose the Best WordPress Hosting?.