Difference Between GET and POST Method in PHP

The key difference Between GET and POST method in PHP is that GET method sends the information by appending them to the page request while POST method sends information via HTTP header.

PHP is a server-side scripting language designed for web development. The GET and POST methods are two ways of a client computer to send information to the web server. These methods help to retrieve information from users by forms.

CONTENTS

1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is GET Method in PHP
3. What is POST Method in PHP
4. Side by Side Comparison – GET vs POST Method in PHP in Tabular Form
5. Summary

What is GET Method in PHP?

A dynamic website has the capability to store, update, retrieve and delete data from a database.  A form is a document that contains fields for the user to fill the data. These form data will store to the database.

The form information with the GET method is visible to everyone. In other words, all variable names and values are visible in the URL. The ‘?’ character separates the page URL and form information. The amount of information to send using GET is limited. It is less than 1500 characters. Usually, it is not a good practice to use GET to send sensitive information such as passwords. In some situations, this method helps to bookmark the page.

What is POST Method in PHP?

The form information with the POST method is not visible to everyone. In other words, all variable names and values are attached to the body of the HTTP request. The form information is not visible in the URL. Therefore, it helps to send information securely. There is also no particular limit to the amount of data to send. In addition to that, the POST method provides features such as support for multi-part binary input while uploading files to the server.

What is the Difference Between GET and POST Method in PHP?

GET vs POST Method in PHP

GET is a method that sends information by appending them to the page request. POST is a method that transfers information via HTTP header.
URL
The form information is visible in the URL The form information is not visible in the URL
Information Amount
Limited amount of information is sent. It is less than 1500 characters. Unlimited amount of information is sent.
  Usage
Helps to send non-sensitive data Helps to send sensitive data (passwords), binary data (word documents, images)and uploading files
Security
Not very secure. More secure.
Bookmarking the Page
Possible to bookmark the page Not possible to bookmark the page

Summary – GET vs POST Method in PHP

This article discussed two important methods of form handling in PHP. They are GET and POST methods. Generally speaking, developers prefer POST method for sending data than using the GET method. The key difference Between GET and POST method in PHP is that GET method sends the information by appending them to the page request while POST method sends information via HTTP header.

Reference:

1.PHP 5 Form Handling. Available here 
2.Tutorials Point. “PHP GET and POST Method.”, Tutorials Point, 19 Mar. 2018. Available here 

Image Courtesy:

1.’PHP-logo’By Colin Viebrock (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia