PHP and MySQL hosting: check application compatibility
Choose hosting for a PHP application by supported versions, required extensions, database limits, maintenance and a tested migration.
PHP handles application logic on the server, while MySQL stores and retrieves structured data. Many websites use this combination, but a hosting package advertised as supporting PHP and MySQL is only a starting point. Your application needs compatible versions and the right supporting features.
Check the requirements of the CMS or framework and its plugins. Confirm the available PHP release, security support period and required extensions, including the appropriate MySQL driver. Check database version compatibility separately; selecting the newest release without testing can break older application code.
Shared hosting can suit a conventional website when its limits match the workload. A VPS provides more control over installed software and background services, while also creating administration responsibilities. Compare memory limits, scheduled jobs, upload sizes, database capacity and deployment access for the features your project actually uses.
Before migrating, test a copy of the site with representative data. Check character encoding, login sessions, forms, file uploads and scheduled tasks. Use separate database credentials with appropriate privileges and enable HTTPS. Restrict database access; if public network access is needed, use suitable authentication and network controls.
Back up both site files and the database, and verify that they can be restored together. Keep the application and its dependencies updated. Clear compatibility and recovery procedures matter more than a general promise of modern hosting.