Introduction
PHP is a general-purpose scripting language originally designed for web development. It is one of the most popular programming languages in the world, and is used by millions of websites and applications.
PHP is constantly evolving, and new versions are released on a regular basis. Each new version of PHP includes new features, performance improvements, and security fixes.
Long-Term Support (LTS) Versions
The PHP development team releases new versions of PHP on a regular basis. However, not all versions of PHP are created equal. Some versions are designed for short-term use, while others are designed for long-term use.
Long-Term Support (LTS) versions of PHP are designed to be used for a minimum of three years. During this time, PHP will continue to be supported with bug fixes and security updates.
Here is a table of the current and previous LTS versions of PHP:
| Version | Initial Release | Active Support Until | Security Support Until |
| 8.2 | December 8, 2022 | December 8, 2025 | December 8, 2026 |
| 8.1 | November 25, 2021 | November 25, 2024 | November 25, 2025 |
| 8.0 | November 26, 2020 | November 26, 2023 | November 26, 2024 |
Choosing a PHP Version
When choosing a PHP version, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The needs of your application
- The level of support you require
- The performance requirements of your application
If you are developing a new application, it is recommended that you use the latest LTS version of PHP. This will ensure that your application is supported for the long term and that it will be able to take advantage of the latest performance improvements.
If you are maintaining an existing application, you should consider upgrading to the latest LTS version of PHP. This will help to ensure that your application is secure and that it can take advantage of the latest performance improvements.
FAQ
What is the difference between a short-term version and an LTS version of PHP?
Short-term versions of PHP are released on a regular basis, but they are only supported for a short period of time. LTS versions of PHP are designed to be used for a minimum of three years.
What are the benefits of using an LTS version of PHP?
LTS versions of PHP offer the following benefits:
- Long-term support: LTS versions of PHP are supported for a minimum of three years. This means that you can be confident that your application will be supported for the long term.
- Performance improvements: LTS versions of PHP often include performance improvements. This can help to improve the performance of your application.
- Security updates: LTS versions of PHP are regularly updated with security fixes. This helps to keep your application secure.
What are the drawbacks of using an LTS version of PHP?
LTS versions of PHP may not include the latest features. If you need to use the latest features, you may need to use a short-term version of PHP.
Conclusion
PHP is a powerful and versatile programming language. It is used by millions of websites and applications around the world.
When choosing a PHP version, it is important to consider the needs of your application, the level of support you require, and the performance requirements of your application.
If you are developing a new application, it is recommended that you use the latest LTS version of PHP. This will ensure that your application is supported for the long term and that it will be able to take advantage of the latest performance improvements.
If you are maintaining an existing application, you should consider upgrading to the latest LTS version of PHP. This will help to ensure that your application is secure and that it can take advantage of the latest performance improvements.
