Use Notepad++ with XAMPP/WAMP to write and run PHP via localhost. 2. Use Visual Studio Code with PHP extensions and terminal for efficient development. 3. Use Sublime Text with a local stack like Laragon for fast editing. 4. Use Atom with language-php package and PHP built-in server to run scripts.
If you want to write PHP code using a text-based programming editor, you can follow these methods to get started:
The operating environment of this tutorial: Dell XPS 13, Windows 11
1. Use Notepad++ to Write and Execute PHP Code
Notepad++ is a lightweight, powerful text editor that supports syntax highlighting for PHP, making it easier to identify functions, variables, and keywords.
- Download and install Notepad++ from the official website
- Open Notepad++, create a new file, and save it with a .php extension, such as index.php
- Type your PHP code, for example:
- Install a local server environment like XAMPP or WAMP
- Place your .php file in the htdocs folder (XAMPP) or www folder (WAMP)
- Start the Apache server and access your script via http://localhost/index.php
2. Use Visual Studio Code with PHP Extensions
Visual Studio Code offers intelligent code completion, debugging, and integrated terminal support, which enhances PHP development efficiency.
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- Download and install Visual Studio Code
- Open the Extensions marketplace and search for PHP Intelephense or similar PHP language support
- Create a new file and set the language mode to PHP
- Write your PHP script and use the built-in terminal to run it if PHP is installed globally
- Ensure PHP is added to your system PATH and verify by running php -v in the terminal
- Run the script using php filename.php directly from the terminal
3. Edit PHP Files Using Sublime Text
Sublime Text provides fast performance and customizable interfaces, ideal for developers who prefer speed and minimalism.
- Install Sublime Text from its official site
- Launch the editor and open a new file
- Set the syntax to PHP via the bottom-right menu or through View > Syntax > PHP
- Write your PHP logic, ensuring correct opening and closing tags ()
- Save the file with a .php extension
- Serve the file through a local development stack like Laragon or manually configure a web server
4. Write PHP Code in Atom with Language Packages
Atom allows deep customization through community packages, enabling robust PHP editing capabilities.
- Install Atom from GitHub’s release page
- Go to Settings > Install and search for language-php package
- Install the package to enable PHP syntax recognition
- Create a new file, write your PHP code, and save it with a .php extension
- Use an external tool like PHP Built-in Server by navigating to the file directory and running php -S localhost:8000
- Access your script at http://localhost:8000 in the browser
