- 1). Ensure that your web host or personal web server is equipped with Apache web server software. PHP works well with the Apache server software, which is also an open-source product and can be installed on your web server without cost. If you are purchasing space from a web service provider such as Godaddy.com, then Apache will already be installed and ready to use.
- 2). Develop your knowledge of PHP through the use of online tutorials. There are any number of books and free online tutorials that will help you develop your PHP coding skills. One of the best tutorials is available from W3 schools (the link is available in the Resources section below this article). You should also review the PHP manual at the PHP.net website (also listed below).
- 3). Download a PHP code editor. PHP can be written in a basic text editor. However, there are a number of programs that provide PHP developers with helpful tools such as color coding, which helps to quickly identify PHP code elements. Information about available PHP editors can be secured from a number of websites, such as Php-Editors.com. Well-known HTML editors, such as Adobe's Dreamweaver, also provide support for editing in PHP.
- 4). Customize the php.ini file on your server. This file sets the rules for how the server handles PHP files. Ensure the file contains the rules that are necessary to provide the functionality to the users of your PHP files, which you need them to have. There is little more frustrating to a new developer than trying to figure out why his PHP code is not working, only to learn that he did not change a rule in the php.ini file. A basic Internet search for php.ini instructions should allow you to access information that will be helpful in fine-tuning the php.ini code.
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