PHP Hypertext Preprocessor

Description

PHP or Hypertext Preprocessor is a server side scripting language for adding dynamic content to HTML pages. PHP can be used to query and publish from almost any database, making it a popular means to build large-scale websites. Users can obtain and license PHP for free which adds to its popularity.

PHP is similar to JSP or ASP, but cross platform and not dependent on any specific piece of hardware or software. PHP is also an open-source solution, so users can adapt the source files. There is a large developer community that collectively updates open-source products as well. Some companies worry that open source creates security risks, but privately developed solutions provide no better results.

PHP can be difficult to administer and maintain. This is the downside to its robustness and flexibility. Unlike other products, there is no readily available GUI or tech support staff. What PHP does well are complex solutions at low costs.

PHP’s most popular companion is MySQL, an open source database product. These two create a fast and reliable backend for any web server.

Advantages

Easy to use
Flexible and Scalable, for small to medium business applications
Cross platform
Speed and efficiency
Open-Source

Disadvantages

No GUI
Requires programming knowledge
No tech support

Uses

A small Linux software company wants update their web presence. The site should provide products and technical support to users. They could use their programmers to develop a MySQL database that could be delivered on the web with PHP. The result is an inexpensive and reliable solution.

Related Technologies

PHP works well with MySQL and Apache web server.