If you've been hanging around developer forums or scrolling through tech Twitter, you’ve probably seen people asking, "Is PHP dead?" It’s a question that pops up year after year, and yet, PHP continues to power the web.
So, if you’re looking to learn to code and start a career in coding, should you still consider PHP and MySQL? Absolutely! And I’m here to tell you why.
Why Do People Think PHP is Dead?
Let’s clear up the biggest myth first. The idea that PHP is obsolete usually comes from three main arguments:
- It’s old – PHP has been around since 1995, making it one of the oldest web technologies still in use.
- Newer languages exist – With JavaScript frameworks like React and backend alternatives like Node.js, some developers assume PHP is outdated.
- Bad reputation from early versions – Older versions of PHP weren’t the most elegant, but PHP has evolved massively over the years.
Despite these claims, PHP remains one of the most widely used languages on the web. Let’s dive into why.
PHP & MySQL Still Power the Web
If you want to become a web developer, you should know that PHP and MySQL aren’t just surviving—they’re thriving. Here’s why:
1. PHP Powers Nearly 80% of Websites
Yes, you read that right! PHP is the backbone of nearly 80% of websites that use a known backend language. That includes huge platforms like:
- WordPress – The CMS that powers over 40% of the internet.
- Facebook – While Meta has made modifications, PHP was a huge part of Facebook’s early success.
- Wikipedia – One of the world’s largest knowledge bases runs on PHP.
This means that if you’re getting into web development, PHP skills will always be in demand.
2. PHP 8 is Faster and More Secure Than Ever
A lot of the negativity around PHP comes from older versions. But PHP 8+ is a game-changer. Here’s what makes it great:
- JIT Compilation – Boosts performance to compete with modern languages.
- Better Security – Features like improved encryption functions make PHP more secure.
- Modern Syntax – Cleaner, more efficient code with features like attributes and named arguments.
If you tried PHP years ago and weren’t impressed, it’s worth a fresh look.
3. MySQL is the Industry Standard for Databases
Web development isn’t just about coding – you need to store and manage data, too. That’s where MySQL comes in.
- It’s fast and reliable, making it perfect for handling user accounts, content, and transactions.
- Most web hosting providers support MySQL, making it a go-to choice for web applications.
- It integrates seamlessly with PHP, making it a powerful duo for dynamic websites.
4. PHP is Beginner-Friendly
If you’re just starting your journey to learn to code, PHP is one of the easiest server-side languages to pick up.
- Simple syntax – Easier to read and write than many other languages.
- Massive community – Tons of free tutorials, forums, and documentation to help you out.
- Quick results – You can build something useful with just a few lines of PHP.
Many developers start with PHP before diving into other languages, making it a solid choice for beginners.
5. Jobs Still Exist – And They Pay Well
If you’re considering a career in coding, PHP is still a great option. While some big tech companies might prefer Python or Node.js, tons of businesses still need PHP developers.
- WordPress development is huge – Many companies pay well for custom themes and plugins.
- E-commerce platforms like Magento rely on PHP – And e-commerce isn’t going anywhere!
- Freelance opportunities – PHP’s widespread use means freelancers can find consistent work.
A PHP developer in the UK can earn anywhere from £30,000 to £60,000 per year, depending on experience. Not bad, right?
Should You Learn PHP & MySQL in 2025?
Short answer: Yes!
Long answer: If you want to become a web developer, PHP and MySQL are still valuable, practical, and in-demand skills. Whether you’re building dynamic websites, working with WordPress, or managing databases, these technologies remain essential.
So next time someone asks, "Is PHP dead?" you’ll know exactly what to say. PHP isn’t dead—it’s just quietly running the internet.
Are you ready to start your career in coding? Dive into PHP & MySQL and build something amazing!