With the rise in the use of the internet for numerous purposes starting from travel to healthcare, the number of websites getting established is increasing each day. Businesses have moved from static to dynamic websites and PHP has made it possible for them to create such dynamic web pages. PHP, a backend scripting language, has a surplus of advantages, which is why it is being comprehensively used worldwide for constructing high-class websites.

Besides, PHP is one such programming language that lets web developers launch secure and feature-rich business websites. Currently, PHP web development services are more extensively considered by organizations than other programming services and developers find comfortable scripting with it.

Introduction to PHP

Hypertext Preprocessor, popularly known as PHP is a common server-side programming language, which means that the applications written on it run based on web servers and do not rely on the web browser. It is one of the core web technologies utilized in the development world.  It has been estimated that 78.9% of websites across the world are developed using PHP. PHP offers exceptional features and various functions that allow enterprises to develop feature-rich, database-driven websites.

Key features of PHP include:

• Rapid Execution – The PHP codes can run much faster than codes created using other languages like ASP and Java Server Pages
• Open-source - The source code of PHP can be acquired easily on the web. Therefore, businesses of any size (start-ups to large-scale MNCs) can effortlessly build web pages without any licensing fee.
• Platform Independent – PHP is a Platform-independent technology. It functions impeccably with most OS like Windows, Mac OS Unix, and Linux, which helps save time, effort, and cost.
• Embedded - PHP is also defined as embedded server-side language. PHP codes can be embedded inside the HTML tags and script. This supports extensibility and provides non-interruptible operation for websites.

Why PHP is Popular

One of the main reasons for PHP’s popularity is that supports object-oriented programming, which offers a whole new set of capabilities. Though initially PHP was used to build dynamic web pages, developers currently prefer this scripting language for creating the server-side web applications. PHP is a multipurpose language, it offers other applications. For instance, it is possible to develop desktop applications using PHP.

The flexibility of this scripting language is another reason for its popularity. PHP offers the excellent capability to combine with other programming technologies. For instance, developers can write extensions to PHP through the C language, which enables even more functionality. Besides, PHP offers a large number of available frameworks and libraries that extend its popularity even further. Some examples of such frameworks are Symfony, Laravel, Zend, Phalcon, and Yii Framework.

Best PHP Frameworks For Web Development

Laravel

Laravel is the most popular, open-source PHP framework available for developers. Laravel is suitable for web application development. Since it can handle complex backend requirements (small or large) at a considerably faster speed than other frameworks. Besides, Laravel facilitates the development process by simplifying common tasks like caching, routing, sessions, and authentication. Deploying Laravel has been made easier through a pre-built, all-in-one development environment called “Homestead”.

CodeIgniter

This PHP framework is suitable for creating dynamic websites. It provides numerous pre-packed modules that help with fabricating robust and reusable components. Because of its simple setup process and highly exemplified documentation, the CodeIgniter framework is ideal for beginners. Other key features of CodeIgniter include inbuilt security tools, MVC architecture, superior error handling, and simple and excellent documentation.

Symfony

Symfony is also an MVC-based PHP framework known to follow web standards perfectly. This framework is the ideal choice for creating large-scale enterprise projects. Symfony is stable, complies with most web design patterns and best practices, and supports integration with other libraries.

Yii

The Yii (Yes, it, is) framework is, in fact, a simple and evolutionary PHP framework. It’s a component-based, high-performance PHP framework for creating modern web applications. Yii has an effortless installation process. Moreover, its robust security features make the framework appropriate for highly secure projects such as CMS development, e-commerce, enterprise portals, online forums, and many others.

5 Reasons to Consider PHP For Web Development

Faster Loading Speed

The use of PHP scripting language makes web pages load faster as compared to other web development languages. For instance, currently, PHP offers four times faster loading than Python for most circumstances. Fast loading time is an important SEO ranking parameter that helps further promote a web page by bringing competitive advantages. Moreover, a fast-loading business website keeps customers satisfied and helps organizations to develop and maintain their client base.

Rich Documentation Support

Many reference manuals, tutorials, and other materials are available on the internet, which simplifies the development and also supports developers with code or source of inspiration during complex scenarios. These materials are also helpful for beginners making the learning process easier. And, as stated before, learning PHP is relatively easy than learning Python, which further adds to its popularity.

Extensive Choice Of Databases

PHP allows users to connect to almost any form of a database. The most preferred choice is MySQL, as it is free, effective, and standard among developers. Other preferences of database management systems compatible with PHP include MS-SQL, mSQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite, etc. Moreover, PHP can be equally used with other non-relational databases like Redis, ElasticSearch, MongoDB, etc. This way, developers are not restricted to using a specific database and may choose the most optimal one based on the project, considering all relevant factors.

Cloud Services Compatibility

At present, many modern products tend to use cloud computing solutions like AWS (Amazon Web Services), for several purposes. Applications written using PHP are highly supported by many cloud services, like AWS Lambda. Developers from the right PHP web development company can deploy a PHP application on a cloud server and acquire excellent scalability and other beneficial impacts.

Large Community Support

The greater reputation of PHP gave rise to a large community of developers, a fraction of which can be potential developers for hire. The huge number of available developers results in high competitiveness and lower demanded wages, which helps reduce development expenses. Moreover, PHP language is rather easy to understand and implement, so even citizen developers can effectively code and build websites and web applications.

Wrapping Up

PHP is a standard programming language that is used for engineering many web solutions like a web app, a blog, or an eCommerce site. It is a major choice for many developers when it comes to web development. PHP service providers create supreme solutions for organizations along with unique benefits and features. Also, PHP frameworks are effective for establishing top-notch web applications. Organizations can acquire the potential of PHP to launch quality web apps or websites that fulfill both user and business requirements.