# PHP 8.0 - Compatibility Research

## ⚠️ CRITICAL FINDINGS - PHP 8.0 EOL

### Latest Version & Changes
**STATUS**: 🚨 **PHP 8.0 is END-OF-LIFE in 2025**
- **Current Latest**: PHP 8.4 (released November 21, 2024)
- **PHP 8.0 EOL**: November 2023 (no security support)
- **PHP 8.1 EOL**: December 31, 2025 (security support only)

### Security Implications
- **CRITICAL**: No security updates for PHP 8.0
- **Vulnerability Risk**: Systems exposed to new exploits
- **Compliance**: Running EOL versions violates security standards

### Upgrade Requirements
- **Immediate Action Required**: Upgrade to PHP 8.1+ (minimum)
- **Recommended**: PHP 8.4 for latest features and long-term support
- **Breaking Changes**: 50-60% code rewrite potentially required

### Best Practices & Recommendations
- **Minimum PHP Version**: 8.1 (supported until Dec 2025)
- **Recommended**: PHP 8.4 (supported until Dec 2028)
- **Migration Strategy**: Plan for significant code refactoring
- **Security**: Implement TuxCare ELS if immediate upgrade impossible

Research Date: 2025-09-12
**VERDICT**: 🚨 UPGRADE MANDATORY - Security risk with PHP 8.0