Handling GET and POST data

In PHP, we often get input from users through HTML forms. When a form is submitted, the data goes to the server using either the GET or POST method. PHP has superglobals $_GET and $_POST to access this data.

1. GET Method:

• Sends form data in the URL.
• Data is visible in the browser’s address bar.
• It is not secure; it is useful for search forms, filters, or when you need to bookmark.
• Data limit: up to 2000 characters approximately.

Example:

<!-- HTML Form (get.html) -->
<form method="get" action="process_get.php">
  Name: <input type="text" name="username">
  Age: <input type="number" name="age">
  <input type="submit" value="Submit">
</form>

<?php
// process_get.php
$name = $_GET['username'];
$age = $_GET['age'];

echo "Your Name: " . $name . "<br>";
echo "Your Age: " . $age;
?>

Explanation:

• If input is Name = John, Age = 25
• URL will look like: http://localhost/process_get.php?username=John&age=25
• Output:
  • Your Name: John
  • Your Age: 25

2. POST Method:

• Sends form data in the request body, not in the URL.
• It is more secure than GET because it does not display passwords or personal details.
• There is no size limit, making it better for large data and file uploads.

Example:

<!-- HTML Form (post.html) -->
<form method="post" action="process_post.php">
  Email: <input type="email" name="email">
  Password: <input type="password" name="password">
  <input type="submit" value="Login">
</form>

<?php
// process_post.php
$email = $_POST['email'];
$password = $_POST['password'];

echo "Your Email: " . $email . "<br>";
echo "Your Password: " . $password;
?>

Explanation:

• If input is Email = abc@gmail.com, Password = 12345
• URL will remain clean: http://localhost/process_post.php
• Output:
  • Your Email: abc@gmail.com
  • Your Password: 12345

Difference between GET and POST: