New PHP version and MySQL transition

I am a little confused about the impact of a new PHP release on our websites using webassist extensions such as eCart, DataBridge etc. and would really appreciate if you can shed some light on this.

I read a lot of fragments in posts, etc regarding MySQL being deprecated and the importance of using MySQLi so our websites will continue to works once the next version of PHP is released.

Which PHP version for example will stop supporting MySQL? Our server has PHP version 5.2.17 installed - will upgrading to 5.3.2 already stop MySQL support or will this happen with PHP version 6 or 7?

Our sites are build utilizing most Webassist extensions - what should we focus on changing to MySQLi to make sure they don’t stop working at one point. eCart, DataBridge, etc?

Is there a best way to transition an eCommerce site using eCart and DataBridge?

So far we mainly found information about the “importance of changing to MySQLi” but really no comprehensive information about how to best approach this change and which elements of web assist need to be changed. Also understanding which PH version will ultimately stop MySQL support would be great.

Any info is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Joerg

Nobody knows exactly when they will remove it... and even after they do it will likely be available to be added back for many years to come.

Realistically this won't be a show stopper for 5-10 years in my opinion.

I wouldn't lose sleep over sites not working that you have already developed or even worry too much about using MySQL in the short term while you get more familiar with MySQLi.

I would suggest starting to use MySQLi where possible to familiarize yourself with it and start using it for new sites moving forward. I have not gone back and updated any sites developed with mySQL and don't intend to. I am however using MySQLi whenever possible in new sites I develop with an eye on the future.

Perfect. That gives me the peace of mind to continue getting myself familiar with MySQLi without the fear that my sites would stop working tomorrow and putting too much time pressure on us.

Thanks as always Ray for a clear answer and your great support.

Best,
Joerg

Hi Ray,

Just a late follow-up question regarding the topic of new PHP version and MySQL transition:

We just got the information that we need to update our server from MySQL version 5.1 to version 5.6. Would this somehow have an effect on MySQL or MySQLi?

My understanding is that it has nothing to do with this but only a later upgrade of the PHP version might have an effect. But I just wanted to make sure and check with you before we upgrade our server to MySQL version 5.6.

Thanks a lot and best regards,

Joerg

It shouldn't have any effect until php 7.

Great. Thanks a lot.