Top 5 PHP Frameworks for Web Development in 2021

• BY: ESTIE
• September 7th, 2021

PHP (or hypertext preprocessor) is one of the most popular open-source programming languages for web development. As of August 2021, nearly 80% of all websites were developed using PHP. So you can easily perceive how popular PHP is, and it will not slow down any time soon. The language is stable, secure and powerful enough to run the biggest websites like Wikipedia, Facebook and WordPress. However, it has seen several changes since its inception.

Developers have to write multiple lines of code for scalable web development, starting from zero every time. The entire task is tedious and time-consuming. This is where PHP frameworks are helpful. 

So what is a PHP framework? Why use a PHP framework?

This article will provide you with a brief overview of the benefits and top five PHP frameworks to help you pick the right one according to your needs.

What is a PHP framework?

A framework is an interface that enables additional, user-written code to change the software offering generic functionality selectively. You can rapidly customise these platforms. However, a PHP framework renders reusable and well-organised code that allows scaling a business in several ways. The fact is web applications running on frameworks are easy to scale.

A professional web development company can provide you with convenient code with PHP frameworks to help you complete your project efficiently and quickly.

Why do you need to use a PHP framework?

A PHP framework offers a basic structure to streamline and speed up the web development process. Developers use PHP frameworks to build responsive websites and applications that aid businesses meet their performance needs.

5 of the Best PHP Frameworks

1. Laravel

Topping this list is an extremely popular framework introduced in 2011, Laravel. This open-source PHP framework can handle complex web applications offering additional security at a significantly faster speed compared to other frameworks. Furthermore, it reduces the complexity of common tasks like routing, sessions, authentication and queuing, thereby simplifying the development process.

Why use Laravel?

• You can use Laravel to develop applications with complex backend needs, big or small.
• This PHP framework packs some of the most advanced PHP features. It includes namespaces, anonymous functions, overloading, interfaces and many others.
• While Laravel is an MVC framework, developers no longer have to write complete PHP scripts on the same pages.
• This framework is hugely expressive. And its security and speed can fulfil the expectations of modern web application development.

2. Symfony

Introduced in 2005, Symfony is another popular PHP framework that offers reusable PHP code and elements. If you want to create a large-scale enterprise application, it is the best PHP framework to go. Popular content management systems and many web applications utilise Symfony components like Drupal, ORO CRM, Piwik and PHPBB.

Why use Symfony?

• Symfony is easy to install and configure on most platforms, making the developer’s task more straightforward.
• One of its notable features is its reusable PHP components. This framework also has database engine independence.
• Moreover, it is stable and abides by most of the best web design patterns and practices.
• The framework’s elements are backed up with regular updates that boost the security of the websites in development.

3. Codelgniter

This lightweight framework is famous for its simple installation using a few configuration needs and tiny footprints. Codelgniter is just 2MB in size but very effective. The framework is perfect for building dynamic websites, thanks to its pre-built modules that help create repeatable and reliable elements.

Why use Codelgniter?

• Unlike many frameworks, Codelgniter eliminates the hassle to install. It has a simple setup process with remarkably exhibited documentation, making it ideal for beginners.
• This lightweight framework has many vital features, including in-built security tools, MVC architecture and error handling.
• Moreover, Codelgniter builds scalable apps and is considerably faster than other frameworks.

4. Cake PHP

Next on our list is the Cake PHP framework. This nearly ten years old framework helps to develop feature-rich, impressive websites. Its popularity can be attributed to its CRUD framework (create, read, update & delete). However, with each edition, the framework adds a new feature. The most current Cake PHP version comes with added features, including the ability to create extra dimension tools and increased flexibility.

Why use Cake PHP?

• Cake PHP offers hassle-free installation and essential features such as scaffolding, reusability, MVC support and others.
• Its security features include SQL injection prevention, cross-site scripting protection (XSS), cross-site request forgery protection (CSRF). Thus, Cake PHP is an excellent choice for commercial web applications.
• Moreover, the framework renders many support portals, excellent documentation and superior support via Cake Development Corporation.

5. Zend

Zend complies with PHP best practices and offers high customisation levels that are very useful for those who want to integrate project-specific functionality. This entirely object-oriented framework is designed to create premium quality applications for enterprises. Moreover, Zend uses features like inheritance and interfaces that make it extensible.

Why use Zend?

• A PHP website created on the Zend framework is typically faster than websites created on other frameworks. More significantly, it provides virtually limitless options of customisation to the developers.
• Some significant features include simple cloud API, MVC components, session management and data encryption.
• This framework features excellent documentation and possesses a substantial community base.

Which Framework Is Best for You?

PHP frameworks simplify the process of development and minimise the work needed in building unique websites and applications. Each framework has a fantastic set of features. Thus, choosing the best framework for you will depend on the application or project you want to develop and factors like scalability, security & more.

Thus, understanding your requirements first and then choose the most suited PHP framework.