How to Check PHP Extensions Required by Your Website

PHP applications often require specific extensions for images, international characters, database connections, or web requests. The exact list depends on the application's version. Check its official requirements before installing or troubleshooting it.

1. Identify the PHP version used by the site

In cPanel, review the PHP version assigned to the domain. Depending on the server, this may appear in MultiPHP Manager or a PHP Selector interface. Do not assume that the command-line PHP version is the same as the version used by the website.

2. Check the application's extension list

Look for the required extension names in the application's documentation. Common examples include cURL for outgoing HTTP requests, GD or Imagick for image processing, and database extensions such as mysqli or PDO MySQL. Requirements vary by application and version; this list is only a set of examples.

3. Check which extensions are available

If your control panel provides an extension selector for the active PHP version, compare its list with the application's requirements. Some servers allow customers to enable available extensions; others require support to make changes. The available controls depend on the hosting plan and server configuration.

4. Test the application again

After confirming or changing an extension, retest the page or installer that reported the problem. Check the site's error log for a specific missing-extension message. Do not leave a public phpinfo() diagnostic page online because it can reveal server configuration details.

If a required extension is not available in your account, contact support with the application name, PHP version, and exact error message. Avoid changing a production PHP version until you have checked compatibility and made a backup.

For cPanel access, see How to log in to cPanel.