Upgrading my server to Magento

[khuramyz]

Hi Guys

Hope you are doing well.
I have a dedicated linux server which runs PHP 5.1.6.
However, I cannot run magento separately as it required PHP 5.2.0 at least.
The work around is to use PHP-CGI.
I am just starting to learn magento and cannot consider myself upto such kind of decisions.
I talked to my hosting people about upgrading to php 5.2.0 and they say that hosting panel might not work as intended which stopped me.
Can anyone please suggest as to what route I should take.
Is running magento under PHP-CGI any kind of hinderence in performance, personalization and development. What do you suggest about upgrading my hosting. I am running about 30 client domains and I am afraid to take any step without an expert advice.

Kind Regards,
Khuram

[EastCoast]

I'd consult with the vendor of the control panel directly and check compatibility. Which control panel are you using?

[khuramyz]

I am using Parallel Plesk control panel.

[EastCoast]

I've had a server with plesk upgraded to php 5.2.6 so it is possible. If the hosting company know what they're doing with plesk there shouldn't be a problem.

[khuramyz]

Hi EastCoast,

It was actually the hosting company's stand that they were unsure of Plesk working on advance PHP settings. I am not sure if they are upto the task.