Web Development Beginner

What is PHP?

A widely-used server-side scripting language designed for web development that powers over 75% of websites including WordPress.

PHP (PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor) runs on the server, generating dynamic HTML pages. It integrates seamlessly with databases (MySQL, PostgreSQL), web servers (Apache, Nginx via PHP-FPM), and supports object-oriented and procedural programming.

Modern PHP (8.x) includes type declarations, named arguments, fibers, enums, and match expressions. Popular frameworks include Laravel, Symfony, and WordPress. PHP excels at web applications, CMSs, and e-commerce platforms.

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Related Terms

Content Negotiation

An HTTP mechanism where client and server agree on the best representation of a resource based on format, language, or encoding preferences.

Storing copies of frequently accessed data in faster storage to reduce load times and server processing.

API (Application Programming Interface)

A set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate and exchange data.

The latest HTTP version that uses QUIC instead of TCP, providing faster connections and better performance on unreliable networks.

The second major version of HTTP that improves performance through multiplexing, header compression, and server push.

A technique that delays loading non-critical resources until they are needed, improving initial page load performance.

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