PHP is a server-side scripting language widely used for web development. It is embedded in HTML code and allows developers to create dynamic websites that interact with databases. PHP's simplicity and versatility make it suitable for a wide range of web applications, from small blogs to large e-commerce platforms. Its compatibility with various operating systems and web servers makes it a popular choice for web developers worldwide.

PHP supports a variety of databases, with MySQL being the most commonly used, and offers built-in security features to protect against common vulnerabilities. Frameworks like Laravel and Symfony enhance PHP’s capabilities, providing pre-built solutions for routing, authentication, and database management. PHP remains one of the most widely used languages for web development, powering popular websites like Facebook and WordPress.