How Can I Convince My Uncle That PHP Isn’t the Go-To Web Tech Anymore?

Suggest focusing on what's best for the project rather than getting caught up in trends. PHP isn't 'dead'—it's just that newer techs have popped up that might suit more complex needs, but the majority of the web still relies on PHP. It's important to find a balance that works for both your needs and your dad's.

You're right about needing root access for some projects, and explaining that some tasks require more than what standard PHP hosting can provide should help. Torque him about how React and NodeJS fit into modern web development; they offer different advantages. But do make it clear that PHP isn’t obsolete – it powers a ton of sites.

Honestly, PHP is still really prevalent in many projects. A lot of companies are still using it, especially with frameworks like Laravel. It's not really dead! But if you need something more flexible, maybe suggest a VPS and explain why it’s necessary for your web development needs and why certain hosting services won’t cut it for what you’re looking to do.

The key is to clarify your requirements. If you're building something that needs a specific tech stack, that’s one thing. If it requires a special server setup, then definitely push for a VPS solution. You might want to explore how managing your dad's email and your development projects as separate initiatives will also make things easier.