Plesk Obsidian 18.0.67 Released: Enhancements in PHP Support, AI Features, and Mail Security

On January 21, 2025, Plesk launched its latest version, Obsidian 18.0.67, delivering significant upgrades for developers and system administrators. This update focuses on bolstering security, expanding customization options, and incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as PHP 8.4, AVIF image format, and AI-powered tools.

Key Highlights

1. PHP 8.4 Support:
   • Available on all supported platforms except CentOS 7 and CloudLinux 7.
   • Users upgrading from earlier versions must manually remove the E_STRICT constant from the error_reporting directive to avoid errors.
2. AVIF Image Format Compatibility:
   • Widely used for its high compression and quality efficiency, AVIF is now supported on Linux systems.
   • Not available on older OS versions, such as Ubuntu 18.04, CentOS 7, and CloudLinux 7.
3. Enhanced Mail Security:
   • Users can now secure mail services with a dedicated Subject Alternative Name (SAN) for domains without hosting using the SSL It! extension.
4. Advanced ModSecurity Rules:
   • Atomic rulesets are now accessible on modern OS platforms like Debian 11 and Ubuntu 20.04.
5. Customizable Dashboards:
   • The new Custom Dashboard extension allows users to tailor their interface without requiring extensive coding knowledge.
6. AI-Driven Recommendations:
   • The Sitejet Builder now includes AI-powered suggestions for font and color scheme customization.

Improved Features

• Grouped Notifications:
  • Notifications are now categorized by type, simplifying alert management.
  • Users can expand, collapse, or favorite entire groups for easier navigation.
• Watchdog Converted to Extension:
  • The Watchdog functionality has been redesigned as an extension, allowing for seamless future updates.
• Roundcube Upgraded:
  • Now powered by PHP 8.3, providing enhanced performance and stability.

Bug Fixes and Updates

Linux

• Resolved DNS record issues when assigning IPv6 alongside IPv4 addresses.
• Fixed errors with log rotation when IP anonymization was enabled.
• Addressed temporary file cleanup failures during unsuccessful backup restorations.

Windows

• Improved handling of virtual directories and backup restoration for domains.
• Fixed issues with account names containing special characters in email migrations.

Updated Extensions and Components

1. ImunifyAV:
   • Replaced by the enhanced Imunify extension.
   • Existing ImunifyAV installations will continue to operate for three months before automatic replacement.
2. Migration Tools:
   • Resolved database import errors and improved email migration handling, including for accounts with special characters.
3. PHP Updates:
   • New versions released: PHP 8.4.3, PHP 8.3.16.
   • AVIF support for the GD extension disabled on some platforms to prevent segmentation faults.
4. Docker 2.1.1:
   • Fixed volume mapping issues and improved container redirection workflows.

Conclusion

Plesk Obsidian 18.0.67 showcases Plesk’s dedication to innovation, offering state-of-the-art tools that enhance security, customization, and technology support. With these updates, system administrators, developers, and businesses can operate in a more robust and technologically advanced environment tailored to meet modern demands.