how-to-check-laravel-version-4-easy-methods

How to Check Laravel Version?

Hi Brothers ,

Laravel is a popular PHP framework for web development. Knowing the Laravel version of your project is crucial when you're dealing with compatibility issues, updates, or third-party packages. Here's how you can check the Laravel version of your project step-by-step.

Methods to Check Laravel Version

1. Using the artisan Command

 

Laravel's artisan is a command-line interface tool that makes it easy to perform common tasks. To check the Laravel version:

  1. Open your terminal or command prompt.

  2. Navigate to your Laravel project's root directory.

  3. Run the following command:

 

php artisan --version

Output Example

Laravel Framework 10.5.2

Method 2 : Checking the composer.json File

The composer.json file in your Laravel project's root directory contains information about the dependencies, including the Laravel framework version.

  1. Open the composer.json file.

  2. Look for the laravel/framework entry under the require section.

    Example:

"require": {
    "php": "^8.1",
    "laravel/framework": "^10.0",   ...
}

Here, ^10.0 indicates that the Laravel version is 10.x.

Method 3 : Checking the Application.php File

Laravel's core version information is stored in the Application.php file.

  1. Navigate to the vendor/laravel/framework/src/Illuminate/Foundation/ directory in your project.

  2. Open the Application.php file.

  3. Look for the VERSION constant.

    Example:

const VERSION = '10.5.2';

This indicates that the Laravel version is 10.5.2.

Method 4 : Using a Browser (Via Routes)

You can also display the Laravel version directly in your browser.

  1. Open the routes/web.php file.
  2. Add the following code:

Route::get('/laravel-version', function () {
    return app()->version();
})

Start the Laravel development server

php artisan serve

Visit http://localhost:8000/laravel-version in your browser. You will see the Laravel version displayed.

When to Check Laravel Version?

  • Installing Packages: Some packages are compatible only with specific Laravel versions.
  • Upgrading Laravel: Before upgrading, ensure you know your current version.
  • Debugging Issues: Knowing the version helps when searching for solutions or reporting bugs.

Best Practices

  • Always keep your Laravel version up-to-date to benefit from the latest features and security updates.
  • Before upgrading, back up your project and follow the official Laravel upgrade guide.

Conclusion

Checking the Laravel version is simple and can be done using artisan commands, files, or even browser routes. Regularly checking and maintaining your Laravel version ensures compatibility with modern features and packages.

By following the above methods, you'll always know your Laravel version and be ready to handle updates or issues with ease.

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