To create a website using only PHP without any extensions, you can follow these general steps:
1. Set Up a Local Development Environment: Install a web server (such as Apache or Nginx) and PHP on your computer. You can use software packages like XAMPP, WAMP, or MAMP, which provide a preconfigured environment with Apache, PHP, and MySQL.
2. Create a Folder Structure: Set up a folder structure for your website. Typically, you'll need an index.php file in the root directory and additional PHP files for different pages or functionality.
3. Write PHP Code: Open a text editor or an integrated development environment (IDE) and start writing your PHP code. PHP code is typically embedded within HTML markup using `<?php` and `?>` tags. You can handle form submissions, database operations, file handling, and other tasks using PHP.
4. Design and HTML: Combine PHP with HTML to create the structure and layout of your website. Use HTML tags to define the elements such as headers, paragraphs, images, and links. Embed PHP code within the HTML markup as needed to dynamically generate content.
5. Add CSS and JavaScript: Enhance the visual appearance and interactivity of your website by adding CSS stylesheets and JavaScript. You can include CSS files using `<link>` tags in the `<head>` section and JavaScript files using `<script>` tags.
6. Test Locally: Once you have written your PHP code and designed the website, save the files and start your local development server. Access your website in a web browser using the server's URL (e.g.,
http://localhost/). Test the functionality and verify that your PHP code is working as intended.
7. Deploy to a Web Server: When you are ready to make your website accessible on the internet, you need to deploy it to a web server. Purchase a domain name and a hosting service that supports PHP. Transfer your PHP files to the server using FTP or other file transfer methods.
8. Set Up the Production Environment: Configure the web server to handle PHP files. This typically involves enabling the PHP module, setting up the necessary server directives, and ensuring proper file permissions.
9. Monitor and Maintain: Regularly update and maintain your PHP code and website files. Keep an eye on security updates, backup your website regularly, and ensure that your PHP version is up to date.
Remember to follow best practices for PHP development, such as using secure coding techniques, validating user input, and protecting against common vulnerabilities like SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS).
Note: While creating a website solely with PHP is possible, it's common to use frameworks or content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, Laravel, or Drupal, which provide additional functionality, pre-built templates, and streamlined development processes. These tools can help speed up development and provide a wider range of features without the need to build everything from scratch.