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PHP MySQL PDO

? PHP MySQL PDO

? Quick Overview

PHP Data Objects (PDO) is a database access layer that provides a uniform method of interaction with multiple database systems such as MySQL, SQLite, and PostgreSQL. It improves security and flexibility when working with databases.

? Key Concepts

  • PDO uses a consistent API for multiple database drivers
  • Supports prepared statements to prevent SQL injection
  • Uses exceptions for error handling
  • Encourages clean and maintainable database code

? Syntax & Theory

A PDO connection is created using a Data Source Name (DSN), username, and password. Error handling is commonly managed using exceptions for better debugging and control.

? Code Example

? View Code Example
// Create a PDO connection to a MySQL database
setAttribute(PDO::ATTR_ERRMODE, PDO::ERRMODE_EXCEPTION);
echo "Connected successfully using PDO!";
} catch(PDOException $e) {
echo "Connection failed: " . $e->getMessage();
}
?>

? Live Output / Explanation

If the connection is successful, the message Connected successfully using PDO! will be displayed. If an error occurs, the exception message will describe the issue.

? Interactive Concept

This PDO connection example can be expanded by adding prepared statements and fetching data dynamically, making it suitable for real-world database-driven applications.

?️ Use Cases

  • User authentication systems
  • CRUD operations in web applications
  • Secure form data handling
  • Database abstraction for large projects

✅ Tips & Best Practices

  • Always use prepared statements to handle user input safely
  • Enable exception mode for easier debugging
  • Store database credentials securely
  • Reuse PDO connections where possible

? Try It Yourself

  • Create a table and insert records using prepared statements
  • Fetch records using fetch() and fetchAll()
  • Implement update and delete operations using PDO