About PHP in 100 Seconds


What is PHP

PHP is an open-source, server-side programming language that can be used to create websites, applications, customer relationship management systems and more.
It is a widely-used general-purpose language that can be embedded into HTML. This functionality with HTML means that the PHP language has remained popular with developers as it helps to simplify HTML code.



What does PHP stand for?

PHP stands for ‘PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor’, with the original PHP within this standing for ‘Personal Home Page’.

The acronym has changed as the language developed since its launch in 1994 to more accurately reflect its nature.

Since its release, there have been 8 versions of PHP, as of 2022, with version 8.1 currently a popular choice among those using the language on their websites.



What is PHP used for?

PHP programming can be used to create most things that a software developer needs. However, there are three main areas in which it thrives.


1. Server-side scripting

Server-side Script is PHP’s main strength. If you are just learning to code and want to explore server-side scripting, PHP is a great language to learn.

To get cracking with PHP server-side scripting you’ll need to have a PHP parser, web server and web browser.


2. Command-line scripting

Command-line scripting is ideal for scripts made using cron (Linux) or Task Scheduler (Windows). It is also great for simple text processing.


3. Writing desktop applications

PHP is probably not the best language to use to create desktop applications but for the advanced web developer, it provides you with many more options than its competitors.



How to Use PHP?

There are three major things needed to code effectively in PHP:



1. PHP Parser

The parser takes PHP code and analyses it, outputting a respective syntax tree that puts the source into an easier to read format for machines to understand


2. Web Server

The server is the program that will execute your PHP files to form webpages


3. Web Browser

The browser will allow you to view the PHP page through the server, in the same way as with any other content on the web





Advantages of PHP

PHP has endured as a popular programming language for almost three decades owing to the number of benefits it offers users and developers. The most significant of these are:


  • It is cross-platform: As mentioned above, PHP can be run on any major operating system, This also means that you dont have to worry about members being able to access code!

  • It’s open-source: Open source means that PHP is a free programming language, so you don’t have to worry about additional costs when building your project

  • Many developers understand it: The longevity of PHP means there’s already a large community out there to support you, and a large amount of legacy code to help you get started with projects.

  • It works brilliantly with HTML: PHP can help simplify your projects and works seamlessly with this dominant programming language.

  • As a language, it is relatively easy to learn: Because of its simplicity, PHP is quicker and easier to pick up than some other alternatives.

  • There are plenty of tools available: There are tools to help you with just about anything for PHP, from integration, code hinting, syntax highlighting and more, there is a lot of support for you.

  • It offers great load times for websites: With website performance becoming more and more tied to speed, PHP’s quick load can really help you succeed.