Most adaptable PHP extension for MySQL : MySQLi !

MySQL is a popular database which is used in web applications, and is a central component of the widely used LAMP open source web application software stack (and other ‘AMP [Apache- MySQL — PHP]’ stacks like, WAMP, MAMP, SAMP & FAMP).

Applications which use MySQL databases include: TYPO3, MODx, Joomla, WordPress, phpBB, MyBB, Drupal and other software. There are three main API options when considering connecting to a MySQL database server,

• PHP’s MySQL Extension
• PHP’s MySQLi Extension
• PHP Data Objects(PDO)

Why we are using MySQLi Extension?

We always concern about latest technology, security & efficiency. So among above three MySQL database extensions we are using MySQLi extension as it’s compatible with newest versions of MySQL servers with good support and maintenance with security.

MySqli Extension is a relational database driver used in the PHP programming language to provide an interface with MySQL database and use the special features of MySQL Extension. Like the “i” at the end of the name suggests, it is an enhanced and improved PHP interface to the original MySQL. The other two MySQL extensions are deals with older versions of MySQL and the simpler, more portable PHP Data Objects.

Some of the differences between the original MySQL and the improved MySQLi are:

1. Dual object-oriented and procedural interfaces: The procedural interface may be preferred by users migrating over from the old MySQL system; with function names differing only in prefix (simply add an “i). The object-oriented interface shows function grouped by their purpose, making for an easier start.This versatility in using both object-oriented and procedural formats makes it easier for users of the older system to make the changes to the improved one, as well as facilitating use for people that are completely new to the system.
2. Support for prepared statement: MySQLi is able to pass a query without any data to MySQL. The query is executed after binding the parameters. This process results in increased performance, convenience for the developer and more security by preventing SQL injection attacks.
3. Ability to process multiple statements: The ability to string together multiple statements in one statement string reduces client-server round trips. The individual statements that make up the string are separated by semicolons, then the results of each executed statements are fetched.
4. Embedded server support: MySQLi offers methods of connecting and manipulating embedded MySQL server libraries.
5. Enhanced debugging capabilities: Users are able to enter debugging queries into the system which results in a more efficient development process.
6. Support for ability to use transactions: Using transactions allow you to input a group of queries that execute but do not save their effects in the database. This is helpful if you have multiple inserts that rely on each other, if one fails, the others can be rolled back and none of the data is inserted.
7. The user has the ability to use new features available in the newest versions of MySQL servers. This is one of the biggest advantages of MySQLi. Other platforms are unable to take full advantage of MySQL’s newest capabilities.
8. MySQL performs (slightly) faster than its competition. With non-prepared statements, the system performs ~2.5% faster and ~6.5% faster with prepared ones.