"Official" PHP 4.x Statement

As I posted earlier, my *intent* has been to support both PHP 4.x and PHP 5.x. for the software, However, after working with PHP 4 again, I've had to revise that position.

In order to get things out the door faster, and to remain as "secure" as possible, I've decided to forego PHP 4 support at this time, and focus on support for PHP 5.x+

Testing everything on both platforms ... the application plus all the components ... nearly doubles the amount of work that has to be done for each release - and I'm finding quite a few problems, not only in my own code, but in other people's components as well.

This move will also allow me to fully utilize PHP 5's improved error handling (exceptions) that will make the system much more stable, as 90% of the "hard" part of installing software is handing errors.

Finally, PHP 4 has been discontinued for over 6 months ... which means no security or other updates are now or ever will be available.

Once the system starts generating revenue and other financial support, and if the need for PHP 4 support continues to assert itself, we'll revisit this decision - however I suspect (given the security implications) we'd prefer putting energy into getting people moved over to PHP 5 rather than attempting support PHP 4.

If you need new hosting, I'm working to provide extremely reasonable hosting through our partners and to help people migrate who need the support.

Discussion / comments / suggestions welcome.