How to Upgrade PHP Version in XAMPP: Step-by-Step Guide for 2025

Hello there! 👋 My name is Somen, and I’ve spent years working as a PHP developer, helping teams and aspiring coders level up their web development skills. If you’re here, chances are you’re wondering how to upgrade PHP version in XAMPP, especially with 2025’s new updates. You’re in the right place! Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve run into those notorious “old PHP version” warnings, I’ll walk you through upgrading PHP in XAMPP in a simple, clear, and friendly way. Plus, I’ll sprinkle in some helpful code examples you can use to test your setup. Let’s get started!

What This Is About

XAMPP is like your personal web server lab—it lets you develop PHP apps on your own PC or laptop, no internet required. But here’s a catch: software evolves fast, and PHP is no different. With each new version, PHP brings speed improvements, bug fixes, and exciting features. Still working on PHP 7 in 2025? Time to jump ahead!

This guide is your step-by-step companion showing you exactly how to upgrade PHP version in XAMPP safely and quickly. And if you’re nervous about breaking things, don’t worry—I’ll use plain language and real-world analogies to make each step easy to understand. Imagine upgrading your bicycle’s gears so you can ride faster and smoother; upgrading PHP in XAMPP is just like giving your development environment a smooth, modern ride.

Why PHP Developers Should Care

I know what you might be thinking: “Why bother? My projects still run!” Let’s talk about why keeping your PHP version fresh is one of the smartest habits for any web developer.

Benefits of Upgrading PHP in XAMPP

• Performance: Latest PHP is much faster. Your code executes snappier, especially for large scripts!
• Security: Old versions don’t get bug or security fixes. Protect your data—and your users!
• New Features: Want to use match expressions or new attributes? Only in recent PHP versions.
• Better Compatibility: CMSs like WordPress, Laravel, and frameworks often require newer PHP.

Think of running outdated PHP like using an old smartphone—sure, some apps run, but you miss out on speed, features, and important patches. Upgrading keeps your development toolbox secure and up to date.

How to Upgrade PHP Version in XAMPP: Step-by-Step

Ready to boost your XAMPP setup? Here’s an approachable, no-fuss guide. Don’t worry—it’s easier than you might think!

Step 1: Download the Latest PHP

Head over to the official PHP for Windows downloads page. Grab the Thread Safe ZIP file (like php-8.3.0-Win32-vs16-x64.zip) that matches your system’s architecture. Unzip the contents, but don’t overwrite anything yet.

Step 2: Prepare XAMPP

1. Locate your XAMPP install directory (usually C:\xampp).
2. Find the php folder and rename it to something like php_old—this is your backup!

Step 3: Insert the New PHP Folder

1. Paste the unzipped PHP folder from Step 1 into your XAMPP directory and rename it to php.
2. Copy important files from your old php_old folder, such as php.ini and php/ext (extensions), to your new php folder. Don’t forget to double-check and adjust settings as needed.

Step 4: Update Apache Configurations

1. In the XAMPP apache\conf\extra\httpd-xampp.conf file, check if there are PHP module references to update.
2. Sometimes, you’ll need to adjust PATH references (especially if you set PHP system-wide on Windows Environment Variables).

Step 5: Restart XAMPP and Test!

Open the XAMPP Control Panel and restart Apache. Now, let’s confirm the upgrade:

<?php
// Save this as info.php inside your xampp/htdocs folder
phpinfo();
?>

Visit http://localhost/info.php in your browser. You should see a shiny new PHP version at the top!

Step 6: Check Compatibility

Some legacy code may use functions deprecated in the latest PHP. Test your projects! For example:

<?php
// Old way that might break
$var = split(',', "red,green,blue");

// New way
$var = explode(',', "red,green,blue");
?>

Watch out for such differences and update your code as needed—this builds your troubleshooting and developer chops!

Final Thought

And that’s a wrap! Upgrading your PHP version in XAMPP isn’t just a technical chore—it’s an investment in your learning, project speed, and digital security. With each update, you unlock new features and help ensure your local development mirrors what’s expected in live, professional hosting environments.

So, next time you spot a tutorial on a fresh PHP trick or want top performance from WordPress or Laravel, you’ll be ready. If you’re curious to explore more about PHP, web SEO, or even brushing up your creative skills for the future, you’ll find more helpful guides in our blog.

Happy coding—and remember, every upgrade is another step in your journey as a confident developer!

Written by Somen from MATSEOTOOLS