Browser Downloads PHP file instead of Displaying Web Page

This document (000021416) is provided subject to the disclaimer at the end of this document.

Environment

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 15
Apache Web Server (apache2)
PHP scripting language

Situation

Visiting a php web page served by apache2 on SUSE Linux Enterprise Server
Web browser downloads php file instead of displaying the page content
php module(s) are not installed on the server. Check with this command (no results if not installed):
- rpm -qa | grep mod_php
php module(s) are not enabled on the server. Check with these commands (no results if not enabled):
- a2enmod -l | grep php
- cat /etc/sysconfig/apache2 | grep php

Resolution

At command line if not installed:

Run these commands:
- zypper install apache2-mod_php8 # Or other php flavor such as php81
- systemctl restart apache2
Clear browser cache

At the command line if not enabled:

Run this command:
- a2enmod php8 # Or other php flavor such as php81
- systemctl restart apache
Clear browser cache

In YaST before running HTTP Wizard for the first time:

Run these commands:
- zypper install yast2-http-server
- yast http-server # Or yast2 http-server if running in GUI
Configure options as needed on Network Device Selection page
Select Next
Select Enable PHP Scripting on the Modules page
Select Next
Complete wizard configuring other options as needed
Select Install at the prompt for installation of additional packages

In YaST after running HTTP Wizard for the first time:

Run command: yast http-server # Or yast2 http-server if running in GUI
Select Server Modules > php8 # Or other php flavor
Select Toggle Status to change status to Enabled
Select Finish

Cause

PHP module was not installed or not enabled in apache2.

Additional Information

For more information, see Apache HTTP Server Module Activation and Deactivation in the SUSE Documentation.

Disclaimer

This Support Knowledgebase provides a valuable tool for SUSE customers and parties interested in our products and solutions to acquire information, ideas and learn from one another. Materials are provided for informational, personal or non-commercial use within your organization and are presented "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND.