What is PHP and why is it Important?
The acronym PHP stands for “PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor” which means it is a computer language. This open-source language is used to build websites and web applications, and it helps to run website servers. So it is used by website tools such as WordPress. A PHP file may contain text, HTML, CSS, JavaScript and PHP Code. When PHP code is executed it is displayed in a browser as HTML.
In 2020 PHP released a major update, PHP 8.
PHP 8 includes plenty of new features including:
- Union Types
- Named Arguments
- Match Expressions
- Attributes
- Constructor Property Promotion
- Nullsafe Operator
- Weak Maps
- Just In Time Compilation
So why is all this important to you? If you have a website then you want to ensure that your website is compatible with PHP8, because sometime in the near future your website host will upgrade the PHP version on the server that runs your website.
Got more questions or need help with ensuring your website is compatible with the latest PHP? Give Kahl a call! Visit KC News for tech tips and more!
Alex Kahl is an experienced international consultant, software developer, and technical project manager with a deep background in environmental auditing and green financing. In 1996, he founded Kahl Consultants, a solar-powered, certified green agency providing eco-friendly web development and digital marketing services to small businesses and nonprofits. Beyond his professional work, he is a dedicated community leader in Marin County who organizes the monthly Marin Green Drinks mixer and volunteers for local environmental restoration projects.