How to Use a Different PHP Version per Directory?

If you need to run a specific version of PHP for a plugin, script, or legacy application in a certain folder, you can assign a different PHP version to any directory within your hosting account using .htaccess.

This also applies to any additional domains you’ve added under the same control panel — each can be configured separately.

How to Set a Specific PHP Version per Directory:

1. Open File Manager from the control panel or connect to your account via FTP.

2. Navigate to the folder (or root directory of an add-on domain) where you want a different PHP version.

3. Create or edit the .htaccess file in that folder.

4. Add the following code to the top of the file:

#+PHPVersion
#=php82
AddHandler x-httpd-php82 .php
#-PHPVersion

5. Save the file.

This will apply PHP 8.2 to all .php files in that directory and its subdirectories.

Supported PHP Versions:

Replace php82 in the code above with any of the following supported versions:

• PHP 5.3 → php53

• PHP 5.4 → php54

• PHP 5.5 → php55

• PHP 5.6 → php56

• PHP 7.0 → php70

• PHP 7.1 → php71

• PHP 7.2 → php72

• PHP 7.3 → php73

• PHP 7.4 → php74

• PHP 8.0 → php80

• PHP 8.1 → php81

• PHP 8.2 → php82

• PHP 8.3 → php83

• PHP 8.4 → php84

Make sure the version you choose is available in your hosting plan.

Important Notes:

• Do not remove the #+PHPVersion and #-PHPVersion lines — they are required.

• This method works for:

  • Your main domain

  • Subdirectories like /api, /oldsite, etc.

  • Additional domains hosted under the same control panel

• Avoid setting conflicting AddHandler rules in parent .htaccess files.

Common Use Cases:

• Running older PHP applications that aren't compatible with newer versions.

• Creating a test environment with a different PHP version.

• Isolating apps that require specific PHP settings.