Description: The ‘Mysqli_stmt’ class in PHP represents a prepared statement for MySQLi, which is a PHP extension designed to interact with MySQL databases. This class allows developers to execute SQL queries more securely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of SQL injection. By using prepared statements, query parameters are sent separately, enhancing both security and performance. ‘Mysqli_stmt’ provides methods to prepare, execute, and manage query results, as well as to bind parameters and retrieve data in a structured manner. This class is fundamental for web application development that requires database interaction, as it allows for a more robust and secure management of database operations compared to direct SQL queries. Its use is especially relevant in environments where security and efficiency are priorities, such as in enterprise applications and content management systems.
History: The MySQLi extension was introduced in PHP 5 in 2004 as an improvement over the old MySQL extension, which did not support advanced features like prepared statements. The ‘Mysqli_stmt’ class was developed to facilitate the implementation of these statements, providing an object-oriented interface that enhances code readability and maintainability. Over the years, MySQLi has evolved to include support for additional MySQL features, such as transactions and support for multiple statements.
Uses: The ‘Mysqli_stmt’ class is primarily used in web applications that require interaction with MySQL databases. It allows developers to execute SQL queries securely, preventing SQL injections and improving performance through the use of prepared statements. It is commonly used in systems that need to perform database operations efficiently and securely.
Examples: A practical example of using ‘Mysqli_stmt’ would be inserting data into a database. First, the SQL statement is prepared with placeholders, then parameters are bound, and finally, the statement is executed. For example: $stmt = $mysqli->prepare(‘INSERT INTO users (name, email) VALUES (?, ?)’); $stmt->bind_param(‘ss’, $name, $email); $stmt->execute(); This ensures that data is handled securely and efficiently.
