PHP (PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor) is an open-source server-side scripting language used to build dynamic websites, web applications and APIs. The code runs on the server and sends ready HTML to the browser, often working with databases such as MySQL or PostgreSQL.
PHP at a glance
PHP characteristics:
- PHP is an open source language
- Large and active developer community = high availability of documentation and support
- Compatibility with databases and servers, including MySQL, MariaDB and Apache
- Scalability of large numbers of users and traffic
- Large access to extensions and libraries
- PHP has many built-in functions and libraries, which makes programming easier
- supports multiple network protocols, including HTTP, SMTP and FTP
PHP technology
What is PHP?
PHP is a true doyen among information technologies. The language was created in 1994 and is, so to speak, the “father” of other related solutions. More than 30 years after its debut, PHP is still actively developed: PHP 8.0 was released in 2020 and a new 8.x version arrives every year. It remains the dominant server-side language – according to W3Techs, the majority of websites whose server-side language is known run on PHP. PHP is a scripting language, which means that it is possible to control the application with the appropriate commands. Anyone who has had exposure to programming will certainly notice the similarity of PHP syntax with C, Perl and Java. PHP itself is an open-source solution which is why many novice programmers started their careers on PHP.
What is PHP used for?
PHP is a universal programming language. It is most often used when creating dynamic websites. Every time you click on a tab, select an option or move to the next page, there are lines of code that automate and optimize the entire process. On the basis of PHP there are all kinds of online forums, streaming services (not only music, but also video) and large platforms – Facebook started on PHP, and WordPress and Wikipedia (MediaWiki) are built with it. It is also the language behind popular frameworks such as Laravel, Symfony and CodeIgniter.
Why choose PHP?
PHP powers the majority of websites with a known server-side language – and not by accident. This technology combines the simplicity of coding, the speed of finding and fixing bugs, and easy access to resources. An important advantage of PHP is the large and active community of people who program in the language, so they will help solve errors. Our programmers are able to carry out outsourced projects that are 100% responsive to our clients’ needs. We will take care not only to realize the coding of the expected project, but also provide comprehensive implementation support and supervision of the development of the web application.
What kind of projects can you do in PHP?
See examples of PHP programming language usage.
Portal or website
PHP is used in most websites, portals, web applications.
Mobile application management panel
Mobile applications for efficient management require an administrative panel – the command center of the application. We will make it in PHP.
Web application
Intranet, B2B, B2C systems, company panels, recruitment services, a number of other solutions.
Online shop
Using PHP, you can create an online store or online ordering system.
FAQ – frequently asked questions
What is PHP?
PHP is an open-source, general-purpose scripting language designed for web development. It was created by Rasmus Lerdorf in 1994 and runs on the server, generating the HTML that users see in their browser.
What is PHP used for?
PHP is used to build dynamic websites, online stores, CMSs such as WordPress, admin panels, CRM and B2B systems, and REST APIs for mobile apps.
Is PHP still used in 2026?
Yes. PHP is actively developed – PHP 8.0 was released in 2020 and new 8.x versions arrive every year with better performance and typing. It still runs the majority of websites with a known server-side language.
What is the difference between PHP and JavaScript?
PHP runs on the server, while JavaScript traditionally runs in the browser (and on the server with Node.js). In a typical web application PHP handles business logic and the database, and JavaScript handles the interactive user interface.
What are the most popular PHP frameworks?
Laravel and Symfony are the most popular, followed by CodeIgniter. Frameworks provide routing, security, database access and testing tools, which speeds up development.
Is PHP free?
Yes. PHP is open source and free to use, including for commercial projects. You only pay for hosting and development.
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