Developers run php codes to make websites more attractive! Now the issue comes how to ensure its 100% accessibility on the internet online? What does one need to host the php app online? Does php hosting require greater resources than traditional hosting? To this comes the best free php hosting providers!!!

Here in this article, we gonna discuss the best free php hosting platforms that offer multiple php versions from 4 to 8, multiple data centers that are spread throughout the globe and 24/7 Live  support protocols via Live Chat and ticketing. 

So, why php? What is so great about it? See!! Websites that are created using PHP codes are extremely compatible with almost every new device, like iPhones, iPads, and Android devices and are even responsive to different screen sizes. 

And second of all, PHP hosting is always cheaper than traditional hosting because PHP is an open source scripting language. Popular CMS like WordPress, Joomla, or Drupal require PHP. Moreover, PHP uses less server resources, decreasing page loading time and increasing overall site performance.

Now, Let’s move the discussion further by not wasting any time! 👍

Best Free PHP Hosting Providers List in 2024

ProvidersKey FeaturesPlansTry Now
   GoogieHost Minimum 100Gb bandwidth and cloudFlare protection with the Free planFree PlanTry Now
   FreeHostiaFree of cost hosting plan with 6GB of internet data and 250 disk space for free.Free PlanTry Now
A2HostingEasy-to-use control panel and effortless PHP version switcher in cPanel$1.95/monthTry Now
Kamatera30 days Free Cloud server trials with latest php version 30 days free trialTry Now
HostingerHTTP/2 is enabled across all servers to process more requests.$1.99/monthTry Now
Best Free PHP Hosting

What is PHP hosting?

Before we move further to explain about php hosting services, first understand what php actually is! So, as the name goes, PHP (hypertext processor) is a programming language used to build extensive websites or applications. 

What is PHP hosting

PHP simply helps the website look attractive by processing the information on the server.

Now, to host these websites that run on php codes, special system resources are needed to upkeep the performance of the php website. To this comes php hosting!

So, php hosting is a type of web hosting that supports websites built with PHP codes. PHP hosting ensures that your website’s PHP code can run smoothly, making things like login forms, online stores, and interactive content work the way they should.

If you have a website that uses PHP codes, then in that case, you’ll need a php hosting service that supports it too!

5 Best Free PHP Hosting Providers of 2024

Now that you know what php hosting is, what benefits could one drive out of php hosting, let’s list below, the top#5 best free php hosting providers of 2024 (TopRanked) that offers you multiple php versions from 4.4 to 8.1 (latest php), SSH key access to fully control the php servers and free control panel to make necessary changes in the application setting as needed.

1. GoogieHost

Topping the list is GoogieHost, known to offer free hosting and a domain with basic web resources that is sufficient enough to run php applications online 24/7. It offers 99% guaranteed uptime, amazingly optimized php servers with multiple versions from 4.4 to 8.3 giving choices to the users as per the compatibility. 

GoogieHost-Best-Free-PHP-Hosting

Even get a full 100% control over your php servers to make changes in the settings. Since it is free and entertains zero cost, you might be wondering if it flashes ads or not. So, to your relief, GoogieHost offers no forced ads and that visitors face no difficulty when surfing your application.

Moreover, get Free CloudFlare CDN ensuring the fastest content delivery and immense data protection mechanism like standard DDoS security, malware protection and firewalls as well.

Key Features

  • Free Hosting and a Domain or One time pay for Lifetime php hosting
  • Get chance to work with multiple php versions from 4.4 to 8.1
  • 24/7 support protocols via LiveChat and ticket support system 
  • Full root access via SSH key access to enable you control the servers
  • Minimum 100Gb bandwidth and cloudFlare protection with the Free plan
  • Free LetsEncrypt SSL certificates to encrypt the sensitive data of the application

Pricing

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Get MySQL and Free FTP account plus Free CloudFlare protection
  • Guaranteed 99% Uptime for round the clock application availability
  • Advanced LiteSpeed web servers for greater app speed

Cons

  • For few free plan limitations, you need to buy the premium hosting plan

Read also: What is PHP Hosting & How Does It Work In 2024? ( Best Guide )

2. FreeHostia

Next in the php free hosting list is FreeHostia, which offers a free php hosting plan including minimum 5 free domain hosting, 3 email accounts, 10MB MySQL storage and 6GB monthly traffic. You get to enjoy a free php hosting experience without forced ads or unnecessary disruptions. Moreover, FreeHostia’s free hosting accounts offer a clean and professional environment for your php application.

Best-Free-PHP-Hosting-FreeHostia

All the web hosting plans of FreeHostia are highly optimized to work with the most popular php web applications like Joomla, WordPress, PrestaShop, as well as with 50+ other free applications offered by one-Click Web Applications Installer softaculous.

Along with that, FreeHostia also gives a Free Hepsia Control panel to let you configure the applications and its dependencies as per the requirement.

Key Features

  • Free control panel Hepsia panel to make necessary application configuration
  • OneClick softaculous installer that offers Joomla, WordPress, JetPack effortlessly
  • Free of cost hosting plan with 6GB of internet data and 250 disk space for free.
  • Multiple data centers particularly in US to ensure 24/7 availability of data
  • Per hour MySQL billing option ensuring high scalability and plan flexibility
  • Full root access to your web servers in case you need to change server setting

Pricing

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Free Hosting of 5 Domains (included in the free php hosting plan)
  • Free SSL certificates to encrypt the application data 
  • Quicker server deployment plus Zero hidden cost

Cons

  • Support services are not readily available

3. A2Hosting

Now, further on the list, we have A2Hosting, one of the best managed php hosting providers that offers multiple php versions to you and especially the developers allowing choices as per the compatibility. A2Hosting makes the server configuration a piece of cake. Moreover, you can even change various PHP settings from your cPanel account.  

A2Hosting-Best-Free-PHP-Hosting

Along with that, if you want to switch to A2Hosting, you can effortlessly do so, without breaking your bank as here you get Free php application migration ensuring 0% downtime.

Plus, for any assistance, A2Hosting’s dedicated 24/7 support team is always ready to help you with your PHP hosting needs. Whether you’re expanding or troubleshooting, A2Hosting offers a seamless experience designed for reliability and performance.

Key Features

  • Guru Crew friendly support team is available at your doorsteps 24/7/365 to help!
  • Free application migration to A2Hosting for absolutely Zero cost
  • Easy-to-use control panel and effortless PHP version switcher in cPanel
  • Free SSL certificate to maintain quality data encryption + SSH key access
  • Choose from multiple php versions available with A2Hosting (4.4 – 8.3)
  • Highly scalable hosting plans letting you choose the resources as needed

Pricing

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 24/7 dedicated support services via ticket
  • Multiple php versions from 4.4 to 8.3
  • Quicker server deployment with easy root access

Cons

  • Greater hosting needs are really very costly

4. Kamatera

As far as Kamatera is concerned, it is a top-tier php hosting provider known for its high-performance infrastructure and global reach. It employs best-in-class php hosting hardware, including Intel Xeon Platinum processors and NVMe SSD storage, ensuring your PHP applications run at lightning speed. 

Kamatera-Best-Free-PHP-Hosting

With 21+ data centers spread across the globe, Kamatera offers low-latency access to your app, no matter where your visitors are located. Kamatera’s web hosting infrastructure allows you to scale effortlessly, means adding or removing resources without downtime. 

You can trust their robust security measures, which include data encryption, access control, vulnerability scanning, and compliance with ethical hosting standards.

Key Features

  • Get Nginx web server with pre-installed PHP FastCGI Process Manager
  • Multiple data centers ensuring the data of your app never goes down
  • Easy cloud server setup without any hassle
  • 30 days Free Cloud server trials with latest php version 
  • Kamatera offers Intel Xeon Platinum processors and NVMe SSD storage
  • Get dedicated 24/7 LiveChat support at times of server related emergencies

Pricing

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Unlimited internet traffic in free plans
  • Quickly deploy your php application effortlessly
  • Remote desktop protocol at times when you are away from you home system

Cons

  • Managed Services and paid (one needs to buy the premium plans)

5. Hostinger

And now lastly, we have Hostinger, one of the overall managed PHP hosting service providers, that offers top-notch PHP hosting on high-performance servers, perfect option for developers and businesses. With an amazing 30-day money-back guarantee and on-demand cancellation, their scalable plans allow you to adjust web resources as your application grows. 

Hostinger-Best-Free-PHP-Hosting

Hostinger provides powerful tools that optimize PHP hosting, ensuring smooth performance. You can easily deploy applications directly from the Git repository, enhancing workflow efficiency. Switching between PHP versions is effortless, and multiple developers can even access the server simultaneously, making collaboration easier. 

Whether you’re a noob or an advanced developer, Hostinger’s robust and reliable hosting solutions help you get the most out of your PHP applications.

Key Features

  • HTTP/2 is enabled across all servers to process more requests.
  • Sets up server-side caching to rapidly increase page speed.
  • Be assured of well-optimized stack (Latest PHP and MySQL updates)
  • you can request a refund of your payment within 30 days of purchase
  • Multiple PHP versions to manage essential PHP values
  • Get a chance to boost workflow with deploying your applications from Git repository. 

Pricing

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Host more than 100 applications just @ $2.99 per month
  • Unlimited Bandwidth
  • Free domain on yearly plans 

Cons

  • Managed services are available on payment.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Free PHP Hosting Providers

With so many free php hosting providers out there! Which one should we go for? It’s really a piece of cake if you keep in mind the points given below, that would let you win an ideal php hosting provider fit for your needs:

Performance and Speed

  • Firstly, look for the latest SSD storage mechanism, optimized web servers, and Free CloudFlare CDN integration to guarantee fast page load times and smooth user experience.

Storage and Bandwidth

  • Second of all, ensure unlimited or scalable options, so your site or your application can handle high amounts of traffic without compromising server performance or risking downtime.

Ease of Use

  • Ensure that the one you choose should offer an easy-to-use control panel, like cPanel or Plesk, allowing seamless management of your website, databases, and files, even for beginner developers.

Customer Support

  • The php hosting provider should guarantee 24/7 customer support. Whether it’s via live chat, email, or phone, quick and expert assistance ensures smooth hosting experiences for developers at all levels.

Security Features

  • Pick the best PHP hosting provider that prioritizes security! Features like Free SSL certificates, daily backups, firewalls, and DDoS protection are essential to safeguarding your site from online potential threats.

Scalability

  • Lastly, focus on the ability to scalable resources!! As your application grows, you should be able to upgrade storage, bandwidth, and other server resources without migrating to a new host.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hosting Your PHP Website?

Exclusively for developers wanting a step-by-step guideline on how to start hosting a php website, we have brought to you the exact steps from scratch. So, just sit and learn 👍

Choose a Web Hosting Provider

  • Select a hosting provider that supports PHP >> (Choose: Shared Hosting, VPS Hosting, or Dedicated Hosting) >> Make sure the hosting plan fits your needs (Storage, Bandwidth).

Set Up Hosting

  • Now, On creating or registering your hosting account with the hosting provider >> Log in to your hosting account >> Find the cPanel or hosting dashboard. >> Create your website environment using tools like cPanel, Plesk, or SSH

Upload Your PHP Files

  • Go to the File Manager in cPanel >> Now click FTP/SFTP or use software like FileZilla >> Place files in the public_html or www directory.

Set Up a Database (if needed)

  • If your PHP website uses a database like MySQL >> set it up via cPanel >> Go to MySQL Databases >> Create a database and a database user >> Connect the database to your PHP files.
  • Update your domain’s DNS settings >> Point to your hosting provider like GoogieHost nameservers >> may take up to 48 hours to propagate successfully.

Test Your Website

  • Visit your domain to ensure your PHP website loads correctly >> Check for any errors like a 500 Server Error or something as needed.

Secure Your Website

  • Set up SSL like GoogieHost offers free SSL via Let’s Encrypt >> Consider setting file permissions like 755 for directories, 644 for files.

Maintain & Monitor

  • Now finally update PHP versions and security patches >> Monitor uptime and php website performance using hosting tools >> Your PHP site will get live now!

Why Should You Choose the Best Free PHP Hosting?

Maybe you have this question about why developers choose the best free PHP hosting that can be appealing, especially for beginners or small projects? Here’s why you might consider it:

Cost-Effective for Testing and Learning

That’s true!! Free PHP hosting allows you to experiment and test websites without spending money. This plan is too perfect for students, new developers, or those learning PHP for the first time.

Quick Setup

Most free php hosts provide easy-to-use control panels like cPanel, which simplify website deployment. You can get your PHP website live quickly without worrying about complicated setups.

Perfect for Small Projects

It is also a good fit for small websites like portfolios, blogs, or personal projects that don’t need extensive web resources. These services often provide enough bandwidth and storage for low-traffic sites.

No Commitment

Since it’s free, there’s no contract or payment requirement. See Kamatera and GoogieHost!! You are required to pay nothing when opting for php website hosting. You can test different hosting providers to find the one that best fits your needs, without financial pressure.

Learning Resource

Free hosts can help you understand server-side programming, databases, and hosting management without upfront costs. You can test and experiment with PHP applications or CMS like WordPress in a real environment.

Scalable

Free hosting can serve as a stepping stone for paid hosting plans!! When your application grows, you can easily upgrade to premium plans with more features.

FAQs:

Which PHP hosting performs best in 2024?

Kamatera, FreeHostia and GoogieHost to name a few are the best php hosting providers in 2024 due to its free services for a month or so, free cloudflare cdn for greater content delivery and multiple php versions from 4.4 to 8.1 ensuring the developers to choose as per the need.

What is the cost of PHP hosting, and what factors influence the pricing?

First of all, the php hosting services are free. However, the greater php website needs, really influence the pricing scheme. A minimum of 1vCore CPU, unlimited data transfer, Free migration and easy support services cost around $4.99 per month in A2Hosting.

Which server is best for PHP?

Nginx, for faster traffic handling, OpenLiteSpeed, for greater website loading and browsing speed and Lampstack (widely used stack for php hosting) are  few of the servers that can be employed for php hosting services.

What are the Benefits Of PHP Hosting?

There are a lot of benefits that one can reap when hosting a php website. Firstly, you get easy MySQL and other tools for database management, and secondly php is an open source code, making it free to use.

Is there a place to host a PHP website for free?

Yes! You can choose to host your php website in Kamatera, GoogieHost and FreeHostia as they offer free hosting trials for a period of a month and onwards.  

What is the difference between free and paid PHP hosting?

To explain in a very easy manner, free php hosting refers to limited resources, slower servers, fewer security features, ads, and subdomains whereas, paid php hosting offers more resources, higher speed, better uptime, no ads, SSL certificates, and full domain name usage. Also that paid hosting typically offers 24/7 customer support, while free hosting offers minimal support.

Can I upgrade from free hosting to a paid plan?

Yes! The php website hosting providers are highly scalable! As they sense that your website or application experiences greater web related requirements, Kamatera, Hostinger and GoogieHost, adjust the web resources as per the usage.

How secure are free PHP hosting providers?

Dont estimate that the hosting services are free, So here the php hosting will be insecure! Absolutely not!! Free php hosting services offer LetsEncrypt SSL certificate, Advanced DDoS protection and FireWall.

Conclusion:

It is really a herculean challenge to pick the best free PHP hosting depending on your project’s needs. While free hosting platforms can be ideal for beginners or small-scale projects, they often come with limitations such as restricted storage, bandwidth, or lack of customer support. 

Providers like Kamatera, Hostinger and GoogieHost stand out for offering free plans with solid features like MySQL databases, PHP support, and easy integration with content management systems. 

However, as your project grows, upgrading to a premium plan might be necessary to access better performance, security, and scalability. 

Overall, free PHP hosting is a great starting point, but be mindful of its constraints and be ready to move to a more robust solution as your website demands increase


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Last Update: September 18, 2024