ddev-legacy-php

Configure DDEV to run legacy PHP 5.6–7.4 under Rosetta emulation on Apple Silicon.

Updated Jun 18, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/muskie9/agents --skill ddev-legacy-php
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: ddev-legacy-php
Source: https://github.com/muskie9/agents/tree/main/skills/ddev-legacy-php
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/muskie9/agents --skill ddev-legacy-php

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) and assets (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill solves the issue of running end-of-life PHP versions (5.6–7.4) on Apple Silicon (ARM64) with DDEV v1.24+.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • PHP Version Support: Enables specific EOL PHP versions in the DDEV web container.
  • Emulation: Utilizes amd64 emulation on ARM64 systems to access a broader range of PHP extensions.
  • Custom Dockerfile: Allows users to modify the Docker environment to suit specific needs.

Quick Start

Run the ddev restart command after setting up the necessary files to enable legacy PHP versions.

Frequently Asked Questions about ddev-legacy-php

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I run legacy PHP versions on Apple Silicon with DDEV?

You can run EOL PHP versions 5.6–7.4 on Apple Silicon by configuring DDEV with a custom Dockerfile that runs the web container under amd64 Rosetta emulation, then executing ddev restart to apply the changes.

Does DDEV support PHP 5.6 on ARM64 architecture?

DDEV v1.24+ does not natively support EOL PHP on ARM64, but you can enable it by providing a custom Dockerfile that forces the DDEV web container to run under amd64 Rosetta emulation for compatibility.

What is the best way to use end-of-life PHP versions in a local Docker environment?

The best way to use end-of-life PHP versions locally is to emulate x86_64 architecture on Apple Silicon, allowing your Docker environment to access older PHP extensions. You can achieve this in DDEV using a custom Dockerfile.

Do I need Docker installed to run EOL PHP versions with DDEV?

Yes, Docker is required for local development to run EOL PHP versions with DDEV. The setup utilizes a custom Dockerfile to build the necessary environment and run under Rosetta emulation on ARM64 systems.

Why does my DDEV project fail to find PHP extensions on Apple Silicon?

DDEV projects fail to find certain PHP extensions on Apple Silicon because native ARM64 builds lack legacy extension support, which you can resolve by running the web container under amd64 emulation via a custom Dockerfile.

Can I modify the Docker environment when using legacy PHP versions in DDEV?

Yes, the custom Dockerfile allows you to modify the Docker environment to suit your specific needs, ensuring compatibility for projects transitioning from EOL PHP versions 5.6–7.4 to newer releases.