How to Install PHP on Linux: A Beginner’s Guide

Are you eager to dive into web development using PHP on your Linux system but unsure where to start? PHP, a popular server-side scripting language, powers dynamic websites everywhere. Before you can begin crafting stunning online experiences, you’ll need to install it on your Linux machine. Don’t worry, though; ‘How to Install PHP on Linux’ might sound a bit daunting at first, but we’ll break it down into easy, manageable steps for you. In this blog, you’ll learn everything from the essential prerequisites to getting PHP up and running. Ready to get started? Let’s jump right in!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install PHP on Linux

PHP is a widely-used scripting language that powers countless websites and applications. Installing PHP on a Linux system is straightforward and can be done in a few easy steps. In this guide, we’ll walk through the installation process, ensuring you get PHP up and running without hassle.

Step 1: Update Your System

Before installing PHP, it’s essential to update your package list to make sure you’re installing the latest software.

Open the terminal and enter:

sudo apt update

This command updates the package list on your system, making sure everything is current.

Step 2: Install PHP

The next step is to install PHP. This will differ slightly based on the version you want to install. If you need the latest version, you can install it directly from the official repositories.

To install PHP 8.0, for example, enter:

sudo apt install php8.0

If you want a different version, replace php8.0 with the version number you prefer, such as php7.4.

Step 3: Verify the Installation

After installation, it’s a good idea to verify that PHP was installed correctly.

Type:

php -v

This should display the installed PHP version, confirming that PHP is ready to use.

Step 4: Install Additional PHP Modules (Optional)

Depending on your project, you may need specific PHP extensions. To view available PHP modules, use:

sudo apt-cache search php | grep php-

Once you find the module you need, install it using:

sudo apt install php8.0-module_name

For instance, if you need the curl module, replace module_name with curl:

sudo apt install php8.0-curl

Step 5: Configure PHP (Optional)

If you want to adjust PHP settings, open the PHP configuration file. You can find this file in:

sudo nano /etc/php/8.0/apache2/php.ini

Replace 8.0 with your installed PHP version if it differs. In this file, you can modify settings such as memory limits, upload file size, and more. Once done, save your changes by pressing CTRL + X, then Y, and Enter to exit.

Step 6: Restart Apache

After installing and configuring PHP, you need to restart the web server to apply the changes.

Enter:

sudo systemctl restart apache2

If you’re using Nginx, restart it instead:

sudo systemctl restart nginx

Step 7: Test Your PHP Installation

To make sure PHP is working with your web server, create a simple PHP file in your web server’s root directory.

Go to the root directory, typically /var/www/html:bashCopy codecd /var/www/html
Create a test.php file:bashCopy codesudo nano test.php

Add the following code:phpCopy code<?php phpinfo(); ?>
Save and close the file. Then, open your browser and go to http://localhost/test.php. You should see a PHP information page, which confirms that PHP is installed and working.

Real-Life Applications of Installing PHP on Linux

Web Development: Installing PHP on Linux is often a first step for web developers looking to build dynamic websites. PHP is pivotal for server-side scripting, enabling developers to craft responsive websites that handle data processing and user interaction smoothly. It’s like providing your site with a brain to process information efficiently.

E-commerce Websites: For entrepreneurs diving into the e-commerce world, having PHP set up on Linux servers is crucial. PHP powers popular platforms like Magento and WooCommerce, making it easier for businesses to manage their online stores. By running PHP, store owners can handle product inventory, orders, and customer data seamlessly.

Content Management Systems (CMS): Enthusiasts interested in launching blogs or news portals benefit immensely from PHP. Many CMS platforms such as WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla are built using PHP. Installing PHP on Linux enables users to modify these platforms to better suit their needs, offering flexibility and customization without hassles.

Automation and Scripting: Users who wish to automate tasks on Linux servers can utilize PHP scripts. These scripts are fantastic for performing routine server maintenance tasks, data backup, or monitoring system health, automating processes that would otherwise be time-consuming.

Learning and Development: For beginners in coding, setting up PHP provides a practical environment to explore programming logic and develop coding skills. As they experiment with PHP, they explore real-world coding applications right from their Linux machines.

Each of these scenarios illustrates the versatility and importance of knowing ‘How to Install PHP on Linux’ for different real-world applications. Whether it’s web development or server automation, PHP opens up numerous possibilities!

Interview Questions on Installing PHP on Linux

Sure, let’s dive into some common interview questions related to ‘How to Install PHP on Linux’. Understanding these can really boost your confidence:

What are the initial steps to install PHP on Linux?
Update the package repositories and install PHP with the command `sudo apt update && sudo apt install php`.

How do you confirm if PHP is installed successfully?
Use the command `php -v` to check if PHP has been installed correctly.
What command helps you install PHP extensions on Linux?
Use `sudo apt install php-[extension_name]`, replacing “[extension_name]” with your specific need.
How can a PHP file be executed on the terminal?
Execute `php filename.php` to run a PHP file directly in the terminal.

How is the Apache server restarted after PHP installation?
Use `sudo systemctl restart apache2` to restart the Apache server.

Conclusion

Before you conclude, check out resources like Newtum for further learning. Mastering PHP’s installation on Linux is just the beginning. Now, dive deeper into creating dynamic web applications. Got questions? Join the conversation in the comments below, and share your PHP journey!

Edited and Compiled by

This blog was compiled and edited by Rasika Deshpande, who has over 4 years of experience in content creation. She’s passionate about helping beginners understand technical topics in a more interactive way.