---
title: How to Use Composer on Hosting
description: "Composer installs and manages PHP application dependencies. ## Safe Workflow 1. Confirm the required PHP version. 2. Upload composer.json and composer.lock. 3. Run Composer from the application directory. 4. Use production flags where appropriate. 5. Review errors for missing extensions…"
url: "https://vertico.co.zw/docs/how-to-use-composer-on-hosting/"
updated: "2026-07-23"
category: Developers
---

# How to Use Composer on Hosting

Composer installs and manages PHP application dependencies.

## Safe Workflow

1. Confirm the required PHP version.
2. Upload composer.json and composer.lock.
3. Run Composer from the application directory.
4. Use production flags where appropriate.
5. Review errors for missing extensions or memory limits.
6. Keep vendor files outside public access when the application structure allows.

## Lock File

Deploying composer.lock helps keep dependency versions consistent across development and production.

## Using Terminal on Vertico Hosting

Where Terminal is enabled on your Vertico shared hosting package, run Composer from the correct application directory and use the PHP version required by the project.

## Need Help?

If you still need assistance, open a support ticket through your Vertico client account and include the affected domain or email address, a screenshot of the error, and the approximate time the problem occurred. Never send passwords by email or support ticket.