Enable PHP Extensions On Bluehost Hosting

Enabling PHP extensions on Bluehost enhances your website's functionality. This document provides a concise guide to activating these extensions through your Bluehost cPanel.

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Accessing PHP Configuration

Log in to your Bluehost account.

Navigate to your cPanel. This is usually found under the 'Advanced' tab or similar section.

Locate the 'MultiPHP Manager' icon. This allows you to configure PHP settings for your domains.

Selecting Your Domain and PHP Version

Within the MultiPHP Manager, you'll see a list of your domains.

Select the domain for which you want to enable PHP extensions by checking the box next to it.

Verify that the correct PHP version is selected for the domain. If not, change it using the 'PHP Version' dropdown menu.

Enabling PHP Extensions

After selecting your domain and PHP version, click on the 'PHP Extensions' tab.

You'll see a list of available PHP extensions. Check the boxes next to the extensions you want to enable.

Click 'Apply' to save your changes. The extensions should now be active for the selected domain.

Verifying Enabled Extensions

Create a PHP file (e.g., info.php) containing the phpinfo() function.

Upload this file to your website's document root.

Access the file through your web browser (e.g., yourdomain.com/info.php).

Search the phpinfo() output for the enabled extensions to confirm they are active.

<?php
phpinfo();
?>

extension=imagick.so
zend_extension=opcache.so

Examples

  • cPanel -> MultiPHP Manager -> PHP Extensions
  • Example: To enable the 'gd' extension, check the box next to it in the MultiPHP Manager.
  • Access your phpinfo file via a URL like: http://yourdomain.com/info.php
  • A common path for the document root is: /home/yourusername/public_html/

Tips

  • Always back up your website before making changes to PHP settings.
  • Clear your browser cache after enabling extensions to ensure you see the updated phpinfo() output.
  • If an extension is missing, contact Bluehost support to request its installation.
  • Test your website thoroughly after enabling new extensions to ensure compatibility.

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FAQ

Q: How do I know which PHP extensions I need?

A: Check your website's or application's documentation for required PHP extensions. Common extensions include 'gd', 'mysqli', 'curl', and 'mbstring'.

Q: What if I can't find the MultiPHP Manager in my cPanel?

A: Contact Bluehost support. They can help you locate it or enable it for your account.

Q: Do I need to restart my server after enabling PHP extensions?

A: No, Bluehost automatically restarts the necessary services after you apply changes in the MultiPHP Manager.

This document is for informational purposes only. It is not official and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Bluehost. Information provided here may be outdated and should not be considered professional advice. This document may contain affiliate links.