If you want the functionality that 1.7 provides, then you will have to
upgrade.
Understood, and I'm not objecting to the PHP5 requirement. I agree that it's a good thing. I just take issue with Gregory's overgeneralization that there is no legitimate reason to continue developing PHP 4 code.
I've emailed my hosting provider and asked if/when they plan on upgrading PHP and MySQL (newer MySQL is not required for MediaWiki, but for other apps I would like to use).
For what it's worth, godaddy.com and hostgator.com are a couple of hosting providers who support PHP5 and get good reviews.
Anyway, much appreciation to the MediaWiki team and the volunteers who test it, support it, develop extensions, etc. Congratulations on the 1.7 release milestone. May you all experience success beyond your wildest dreams!
Regards, Bill K.