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PHP & Performance

Understanding PHP Handlers in cPanel

The PHP handler determines how the server runs your PHP code, affecting speed and memory. On modern cPanel the best option is usually already set — here is what it means.

Step-by-step

  1. Understand the role. The handler is the bridge between the web server and PHP; the common modern handler is PHP-FPM, which is fast and efficient.
  2. Open Software → MultiPHP Manager to see whether PHP-FPM is enabled for your domain.
  3. Enable PHP-FPM for better performance on dynamic sites like WordPress, if it is not already on.
  4. Leave the handler at the recommended default unless an application specifically requires otherwise — EconomicalHost servers are tuned for the best general choice.
  5. Pair the handler with a current PHP version (change PHP version) for maximum speed.
  6. Test your site after any handler change to confirm everything still loads.

💡 Good to know

  • PHP-FPM with OPcache gives the best performance for most sites.
  • You rarely need to change the handler — it is an advanced setting that is usually optimal by default.
  • Unsure? Contact EconomicalHost support before changing handler settings.

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