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Complete Guide to Downgrading PHP Version on Linux to Resolve Compatibility Issues

gitbox 2025-07-26

Why Downgrade PHP Version

PHP is a widely used server-side scripting language in Linux environments. However, new PHP versions sometimes introduce compatibility issues. Downgrading to a previous stable version is a practical solution to ensure existing applications continue to work properly. Common reasons include:

Incompatible libraries or frameworks affecting operation;

New PHP versions potentially introducing security risks;

Performance degradation in applications.

Check Current PHP Version

Before performing a downgrade, you should check the current PHP version installed on your system using the following command:

php -v

Backup Current Environment

To prevent any data loss or issues, it is recommended to back up your current PHP environment and related code before proceeding. An example backup command is:

tar -czvf php_backup.tar.gz /path/to/php

Select Target PHP Version

Choose the PHP version you want to downgrade to based on your requirements. You can visit the official PHP releases page to find and download the desired version.

Downgrade PHP Using Package Managers

On Debian/Ubuntu Systems

Uninstall the current PHP version, then install the specified version using:

sudo apt-get remove php*
sudo apt-get install php7.4

On CentOS/RHEL Systems

Use the following commands to remove and install the target PHP version:

sudo yum remove php*
sudo yum install php-7.4

Verify Successful Downgrade

After installation, verify the PHP version again to confirm the downgrade was successful:

php -v

Conclusion

Following these steps will allow you to effectively downgrade PHP on your Linux system, resolving compatibility and performance issues caused by version updates. Always remember to back up before making changes and select the appropriate version for your needs. If you encounter difficulties, refer to official documentation or seek professional assistance to maintain system stability and security.