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PHP

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May 1, 2024 Updated May 11, 2025 23 minute read

PHP, an acronym for "PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor," is a widely-used open-source scripting language primarily designed for web development. It allows developers to create dynamic and interactive web pages by embedding PHP code directly into HTML. This server-side language can process data, manage user sessions, handle form submissions, and interact seamlessly with various databases, making it a powerful tool for building robust web applications. The journey of PHP began in 1993 when Danish-Canadian programmer Rasmus Lerdorf created a set of CGI (Common Gateway Interface) programs in C to manage his personal homepage. This initial creation, later dubbed "Personal Home Page Tools," laid the groundwork for what would evolve into the versatile language we know today.

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Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in PHP.
Comprehensive guide to object-oriented programming in PHP, covering design patterns, best practices, and real-world examples.
Provides a comprehensive guide to PHP security, covering common vulnerabilities, best practices, and mitigation techniques.
Provides a practical guide to PHP development, covering a wide range of topics from basic syntax to advanced techniques.
Comprehensive guide to PHP for web development, covering everything from basic syntax to advanced topics.
Provides practical tips and techniques for optimizing the performance of PHP applications.
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