PHP, of course, is introduced in the book, but there is also an approachable and effective introduction to programming in general. The conscientious tutorial on basic concepts like variables, keywords and flow control will give even beginners an understanding of the basics of writing programs. PHP, it turns out, is not only a great way to generate HTML dynamically, it's a very marketable skill. Web fundamentals like HTTP, HTML form variables, and managing session information using no less than four different techniques are explained thoroughly and effectively. You also find out how to install PHP and other tools on your system, with the assistance of plenty of screen shots.

That's not to say that this book will cramp the style of more experienced developers. Some chapters delve into such important and advanced topics as database programming (with MySQL) and PHP's support for XML. One standout section demystifies the new support for objects and classes in PHP4. Basic topics like managing files and directories on the server, plus graphics processing, are addressed, of course, and a nifty sample program shows you how to build a Web-based text editor. Except for the final case study, a "URL directory manager" (akin to Yahoo) that is rather specialised, the examples are spot on, illustrating everyday programming tasks. You will also learn to generate e-mail with PHP, certainly a valuable skill to have.

The appendix lists several hundred PHP functions in over 50 pages--a handy and useful feature. In all, Beginning PHP4 provides a strong choice for learning about one of today's most powerful and easy-to-use scripting languages. It is concise, fast-moving and thoroughly approachable. --Richard Dragan --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Description
What is this book about?

PHP is a rapidly growing web technology which enables web designers to build dynamic, interactive web applications, incorporating information from a host of databases, and including features such as email integration and dynamically generated images. PHP4 added tons of features to make web application development even easier, and this book will show you how to make the most of the languages powerful capabilities.

This book is a complete tutorial in PHPs language features and functionality, beginning with the basics and building up to the design and construction of complex datadriven websites. Fully working examples in the book include a directorystyle web search engine, a mailing list management system, a webbased file editor, and a graphical online shopping mall guidebook.

What does this book cover?

Here are just a few of the things youll find covered in this book:

• Complete tutorial in the PHP language
• Installation guide and troubleshooting tips
• Introduction to relational databases and MySQL
• Practical worked examples throughout, including a detailed case study
• All code written for both Windows and UNIX systems
• Detailed language reference included

Who is this book for?

Anybody who knows HTML can use this book. If youve done any programming, that will be useful, but its not a requirement. You can run all of the code on either a Windows or UNIX (e.g., Linux) system, and the book explains how to set up a web server and database in both of these environments.

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