In this article, we will explore how to handle HTTP requests in PHP effectively.

By default, PHP offers file-based routing. You can create an index.php file that will respond to the / path. This is similar to the Hello World example we covered earlier. Additionally, you can create a test.php file, which will automatically be served by Apache for the /test route.

Understanding $_GET, $_POST, and $_REQUEST

PHP provides superglobal objects like $_GET, $_POST, and $_REQUEST to handle different types of HTTP requests.

For GET requests, the $_GET object allows you to access all the query string data. This is extremely useful for retrieving data from the URL.

On the other hand, for POST, PUT, and DELETE requests, you are more likely to receive data in urlencoded format or by using the FormData object. In these cases, PHP makes the data available through the $_POST object.

Additionally, PHP provides the $_REQUEST object, which combines both $_GET and $_POST data, allowing you to handle requests in a more unified manner.

Utilizing $_SERVER

The $_SERVER superglobal variable contains valuable information related to the current request. This variable is particularly useful in obtaining server configuration details.

To access the $_SERVER variable, you can use the phpinfo() function. In your index.php file located in the root of your MAMP setup, insert the following code:

<?php
phpinfo();
?>

After generating the page at localhost:8888, search for $_SERVER to view the stored configuration and assigned values.

Some important $_SERVER variables you might find useful include:

  • $_SERVER['HTTP_HOST']
  • $_SERVER['HTTP_USER_AGENT']
  • $_SERVER['SERVER_NAME']
  • $_SERVER['SERVER_ADDR']
  • $_SERVER['SERVER_PORT']
  • $_SERVER['DOCUMENT_ROOT']
  • $_SERVER['REQUEST_URI']
  • $_SERVER['SCRIPT_NAME']
  • $_SERVER['REMOTE_ADDR']

By leveraging these variables, you can access essential information about the HTTP request, such as the host, user agent, server details, and more.

Handling HTTP requests in PHP becomes seamless once you understand how to effectively use $_GET, $_POST, $_REQUEST, and $_SERVER. These tools empower you to extract and process the necessary data to fulfill client requests.