---
title: PHP 5.6 Migration Guide – Compatibility Changes and Required Actions
description: This page explains changes introduced with the migration to PHP 5.6 and provides guidance on how to ensure your website remains compatible.
tags: web-hosting php migration guide compatibility
dates:
  validation: 2026-10-26
  posted: 2026-10-26
---

As part of our security measures, Scaleway is upgrading Web Hosting websites running on PHP 5.2, 5.4, and 5.5 **to PHP 5.6**.

This change may affect older websites, particularly those using outdated CMS versions, plugins, or custom PHP code.

> **Important**
>
> PHP 5.6 no longer receives official security updates. This migration is a transitional measure, and upgrading to a currently supported PHP version remains recommended.

## Main compatibility changes

| Feature              | Potential impact                                                                                        | Recommended action                         |
| -------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------ |
| MySQL functions      | `mysql_*` functions are deprecated but still supported if the extension is enabled.                     | Migrate to MySQLi or PDO.                  |
| Deprecated functions | Functions such as `ereg()`, `split()`, or `session_register()` may generate warnings or no longer work. | Replace outdated functions.                |
| SSL/TLS connections  | PHP 5.6 verifies SSL certificates by default, potentially breaking external connections.                | Check HTTPS, SMTP, and API integrations.   |
| PHP configuration    | Legacy settings such as `register_globals` and `magic_quotes_gpc` are no longer supported.              | Review application configuration.          |
| Legacy code          | Older PHP scripts may behave differently or generate errors.                                            | Check PHP logs and test critical features. |

## CMS and framework compatibility

If your website uses a CMS or framework, verify its compatibility with PHP 5.6.

| Platform                   | What to check                                       |
| -------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------- |
| WordPress                  | WordPress version, plugins, and themes              |
| PrestaShop                 | Version compatibility, payment and shipping modules |
| Joomla! / Drupal           | Core version, templates, and extensions             |
| Symfony / Other frameworks | Framework version and PHP dependencies              |

Older versions may require updates before working correctly with PHP 5.6.

## What should you do?

After the migration:

1. Check your website: verify that pages load correctly.
2. Test key features: forms, authentication, payments, database access, and emails.
3. Review PHP error logs: look for fatal errors, warnings, and deprecated functions.
4. Update incompatible code, plugins, or CMS components if necessary.

If you encounter hosting-related issues, contact [Scaleway Support](https://console.scaleway.com/support/create).

## Additional resources

* [Official PHP 5.6 migration guide](https://www.php.net/manual/en/migration56.php)
* [PHP 5.6 backward-incompatible changes](https://www.php.net/manual/en/migration56.incompatible.php)
* [WordPress PHP compatibility](https://make.wordpress.org/core/handbook/references/php-compatibility-and-wordpress-versions/)