PHP is an open-source programming language created in 1990. Many web developers find it essential to learn PHP, as this language is used to build more than 80% of websites on the Internet, including notable sites like Facebook and Yahoo.

Programmers mainly use PHP mainly to write server-side scripts. But developers can also use this language to write command-line scripts, and programmers with high-level PHP coding skills can also use it to develop desktop applications.

PHP is considered a relatively easy language to learn for beginning developers. PHP professionals have access to several dedicated online communities, making it easy to get support and answers to questions.

Level: Beginner to intermediate

Skills Needed: Simple if you have a background in programming languages, but relatively easy to learn for newcomers

Platform: Cross-platform (desktop, mobile, web)

Popularity Among Programmers: Used by nearly 80% of all active websites, so it’s very popular with web developers

Benefits:
Open-source
Easy to develop and may be integrated with many different tools
Cost effective
Flexible with database connectivity

Downsides: Not very secure; not well-suited for large applications; poor error-handling; cannot support a large number of apps

Degree of Use: While it’s used by the vast majority of websites, its use is declining