What is PHP?
PHP stands for Hypertext Preprocessor. It is a server-side scripting language designed for web development. Unlike HTML, which is static, PHP allows websites to interact with databases, process information, and deliver customized content to users.
For example:
HTML displays the same content to everyone.
PHP can show different content depending on who is visiting, whether they’re logged in, or what data is stored in the database.
Key Features of PHP
1. Server-Side Execution
PHP code runs on the server, not the user’s browser. The server processes the code and sends the result as HTML to the user.
2. Database Integration
PHP works well with databases like MySQL, making it possible to build applications that store and retrieve data (e.g., user logins, comments, products).
3. Easy to Learn
PHP’s syntax is simple and similar to other programming languages like C and Java, making it beginner-friendly.
4. Cross-Platform
PHP runs on different operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS) and works with most web servers.
5. Open Source & Community Support
PHP is free to use, with a large community contributing to its development, frameworks, and libraries.
Why is PHP Important?
PHP remains popular because it is:
Widely used: Around 75% of websites use PHP in some form, including WordPress, Wikipedia, and Slack.
Efficient: Great for building dynamic pages quickly.
Flexible: Can be embedded inside HTML or combined with other languages like JavaScript.
Scalable: Supports small websites as well as large platforms with millions of users.
Example of PHP in Action
Here’s a simple PHP script that displays a greeting:
$name = "Karabo";
echo "Hello, " . $name . "! Welcome to PHP.";
?>
When this code runs on a PHP server, it will output:
Hello, Karabo! Welcome to PHP.
What Can You Build With PHP?
Content Management Systems (WordPress, Joomla, Drupal)
E-commerce Websites (online shops with carts and payments)
Web Applications (foru
ms, booking systems, social media platforms)
APIs for connecting apps and services
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