PHP Programming with MYSQL: The Web Technologies Series by Don Gosselin – A Complete Guide to Building Database-Driven W

Introduction

In the rapidly evolving world of web development, mastering server-side scripting and database management is essential for building dynamic, data-driven websites. PHP Programming with MySQL: The Web Technologies Series by Don Gosselin offers a comprehensive, hands-on introduction to two of the most widely used technologies in the industry. Published by Cengage Learning, this hardcover edition is an indispensable resource for Indian students, aspiring developers, and IT professionals who want to gain practical skills in PHP and MySQL. Whether you are a beginner or looking to strengthen your foundation, this book provides a structured path to creating professional-quality web applications.

Book Overview

This book is part of the respected Web Technologies Series and is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world application. It begins with the fundamentals of PHP scripting and MySQL database design, then gradually moves into advanced topics such as object-oriented programming, authentication, security, and building robust, database-driven websites. The content is presented in a clear, step-by-step manner, making it easy for readers to follow along and apply what they learn. Each chapter includes practical examples, exercises, and projects that reinforce key concepts, ensuring that readers not only understand the material but can also implement it effectively.

Key Highlights

• Comprehensive coverage of PHP and MySQL, from basics to advanced topics.
• Practical, project-based approach with real-world examples and exercises.
• Focus on security and authentication for building safe web applications.
• Introduction to object-oriented programming in PHP for scalable code.
• Hardcover edition for durability and long-term reference.
• Aligned with industry standards and suitable for Indian academic curricula.

Inside the Book

The book is organized into well-structured chapters that progressively build your skills. You will start with setting up a development environment, writing basic PHP scripts, and understanding MySQL database structures. As you advance, you will explore form handling, sessions, cookies, and database connectivity. Later chapters delve into error handling, debugging, and advanced MySQL queries. The final sections cover object-oriented PHP, building secure login systems, and deploying web applications. Each chapter ends with review questions and coding challenges to test your understanding.

Key Topics

• PHP syntax, variables, operators, and control structures
• Functions, arrays, and string manipulation in PHP
• MySQL database design, tables, and SQL queries
• Connecting PHP to MySQL using MySQLi and PDO
• Form processing, validation, and data sanitization
• Sessions, cookies, and user authentication
• Object-oriented programming concepts in PHP
• Security best practices: SQL injection, XSS, and password hashing
• Building a complete database-driven website project

Reader Benefits

• Hands-on learning: Write real code from the first chapter.
• Career-ready skills: Gain expertise in PHP and MySQL, highly demanded in the Indian IT job market.
• Self-paced study: Ideal for both classroom learning and independent learners.
• Clear explanations: Complex topics are broken down into simple, digestible parts.
• Long-lasting reference: The hardcover format ensures the book remains a valuable resource for years.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this book, you will be able to:

• Write efficient PHP scripts to handle dynamic content.
• Design and manage MySQL databases with proper normalization.
• Integrate PHP with MySQL to create interactive, data-driven websites.
• Implement user authentication, session management, and security measures.
• Apply object-oriented programming principles to build scalable web applications.
• Debug and troubleshoot common PHP and MySQL errors.
• Deploy a complete web project from concept to live server.

Who Should Read

This book is ideal for undergraduate and postgraduate students in computer science and information technology programs across Indian universities. It is also perfect for web development enthusiasts, freelancers, and professionals transitioning from static HTML/CSS to dynamic backend development. No prior experience with PHP or MySQL is required, though basic knowledge of HTML and web concepts will be helpful. The book is structured to accommodate both beginners and those with some programming background.

About the Author

Don Gosselin is a seasoned educator and author with extensive experience in web technologies and programming. He has written several textbooks in the Web Technologies Series, known for their clarity, practical focus, and alignment with industry needs. His teaching approach emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world application, making complex topics accessible to students and professionals alike. Gosselin's works are widely used in academic institutions and training programs across the globe, including India.

About the Publisher

Cengage Learning is a leading global educational publisher that delivers high-quality learning solutions for students and professionals. With a strong presence in India, Cengage publishes textbooks that meet the rigorous standards of Indian universities and technical institutes. Their titles are known for comprehensive coverage, expert authorship, and practical pedagogy. This book is part of their commitment to empowering learners with skills that drive career success in the digital age.

Conclusion

PHP Programming with MySQL: The Web Technologies Series is more than just a textbook—it is a complete learning package for anyone serious about becoming a proficient web developer. With its clear structure, practical examples, and focus on security and modern practices, this hardcover edition from Cengage Learning is a must-have for Indian students and professionals. Whether you are preparing for exams, building a portfolio, or launching a career in web development, this book provides the knowledge and confidence you need. Order your copy today from Bookshops.in and take the first step toward mastering PHP and MySQL.