# Customising PHP settings for WordPress with the Custom PHP Settings plugin

> Change PHP settings such as memory limit, upload size and execution time from WordPress with the Custom PHP Settings plugin.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/wordpress/guides/customizing-php-settings-for-wordpress-using-the-custom-php-settings/

WordPress relies on PHP for its core functionality. Sometimes, you may need to adjust PHP settings (like memory limits, upload sizes, or execution times) to improve performance or enable certain plugins. On **ruachost.com**, you can do this easily using the **Custom PHP Settings plugin** without editing files manually.

## Why Customize PHP Settings?

- Increase **memory limit** for large plugins or themes.
- Adjust **max upload size** for media files.
- Extend **max execution time** for imports or backups.
- Fine‑tune PHP configuration for better performance and compatibility.

## Installing and Configuring the Plugin

1. **Log in to WordPress** with an administrator account.
2. In the dashboard, go to **Plugins → Add New**.
3. Search for **Custom PHP Settings**.
4. Click **Install Now**, then **Activate**.
5. In the dashboard, go to **Tools → Custom PHP Settings**.

## ⚙️ Using the Plugin

The plugin provides four tabs:

- **Editor Tab** → Add or modify PHP configuration settings. Example:

  ```
  memory_limit = 256M
  upload_max_filesize = 64M
  max_execution_time = 300
  ```
- **Settings Tab** → View current PHP settings for your WordPress installation.
- **Status Tab** → Track changes made to configuration files.
- **Info Tab** → Displays server and PHP environment details.

✅ Changes are applied directly to `.htaccess` or `.user.ini` files, depending on your hosting setup.

## Important Notes

- The configuration file must be **writable** for changes to take effect.
- Always back up your site before modifying PHP settings.
- Incorrect values may cause errors or downtime.
- Use conservative values unless you are sure your server can handle higher limits.