Does Laravel Support PHP 7?

Yes, Laravel does support PHP 7, and this support has been a significant milestone for Laravel developers. Laravel 5.1 and later versions are fully compatible with PHP 7, taking advantage of the performance improvements and new language features that PHP 7 brings. This is particularly important as Laravel has made a push towards PHP 7 with some future versions mandatorily requiring it.

Laravel and PHP 7 Compatibility

PHP 7 introduced a range of new features and performance optimizations, making it a preferred choice for developers. Laravel leverages these improvements to enhance its framework, ensuring that developers can take full advantage of the latest PHP capabilities. For instance, Laravel 5.5, set for release in July 2017, is scheduled to require PHP 7. This is part of Laravel's ongoing commitment to support the latest PHP versions.

It is also important to consider the status of older PHP versions. PHP 5.6 is scheduled to reach its end-of-life in 2018, and PHP 5.5 is already unsupported. This means that continuing to support older versions is no longer a viable option. As such, all developers using Laravel should consider upgrading to PHP 7. This not only ensures compatibility with the latest Laravel versions but also enhances the overall performance and security of the application.

Laravel 5.1 and Beyond

Laravel 5.1 and subsequent versions have been designed to work seamlessly with PHP 7. While earlier versions of Laravel might have had limited support for PHP 7, starting with 5.1, Laravel has fully embraced the latest PHP version. This makes it easier for developers to ensure that their applications are up-to-date and benefiting from the latest PHP features and performance improvements.

Testing and Best Practices

Testing is crucial when upgrading to a new PHP version, especially when dealing with frameworks like Laravel. Laravel requires at least PHP 5.5.9 for optimal performance and functionality. Developers should always test their applications thoroughly to ensure that the upgrade does not break any critical functionality. This can be achieved through automated testing, code reviews, and manual testing.

Additionally, it is recommended to follow best practices when upgrading. These include:

Backup your current codebase and database before upgrading. Use a tool like environment configuration management to ensure smooth deployment. Monitor the application performance and stability closely after the upgrade.

For more detailed information on the specific requirements and best practices for upgrading to PHP 7 with Laravel, refer to the official Laravel Documentation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Laravel does support PHP 7 and encourages its use for optimal performance and future compatibility. With the recent announcements and plans for future Laravel releases, it is clear that PHP 7 is the preferred version for Laravel developers. Whether you are a new or existing developer, making the switch to PHP 7 with Laravel will bring numerous benefits, enhancing both the performance and maintainability of your applications.