When you're building a website today, you're probably using PHP 8, a modern, high-performance server-side scripting language that powers over 77% of websites, including WordPress, Etsy, and Wikipedia. Also known as PHP 8.3, it's the version that actually runs on most live sites—not the old, unsupported ones you might hear about. This isn't some legacy relic. PHP 8 brought real speed boosts, better error handling, and features that make code cleaner and harder to break. It’s what keeps sites fast, secure, and scalable—even under heavy traffic.
PHP 8 doesn’t work alone. It’s tightly linked to Laravel, a popular PHP framework that simplifies complex tasks like user authentication, database management, and API building. If you’ve ever used WordPress, you’re seeing PHP 8 in action—every plugin, theme, and update relies on it. And while some say JavaScript is taking over, PHP still handles the heavy lifting on the server: processing forms, talking to databases, and serving content fast. You don’t need to choose between PHP and JavaScript—they work together. PHP handles the backend logic; JavaScript makes the front end feel alive.
What’s more, outdated PHP, like versions 7.4 or 8.1, are no longer safe. They stop receiving security updates, leaving sites open to attacks. Upgrading to PHP 8.3 isn’t optional—it’s basic maintenance, like changing your car’s oil. Many developers skip this step because they don’t know how, but the payoff is huge: faster load times, fewer crashes, and better compatibility with modern tools.
So if you’re wondering whether PHP is still worth learning in 2025, the answer is yes—if you care about building real websites that people actually use. It’s not about hype. It’s about what works. The posts below break down exactly how PHP 8 powers today’s web, what to avoid, how to upgrade, and why it still beats the alternatives for most business sites. You’ll find real answers—not theory, not fluff, just what you need to know to make smart choices.
PHP isn't dying-it's evolving. While JavaScript and no-code tools are taking over new projects, PHP still powers over 75% of websites, especially WordPress and WooCommerce. Here's what's really happening-and what you should do next.