PHP vs. SSI

What's the difference?

[dougmcc1]

Is there a difference in using servide side includes versus PHP includes? Ex:

<? include 'includes.php';?>
<!--#include file='includes.php' -->

[lorax]

Yup.

SSI is simply added to the HTML.

PHP includes are parsed and then added so you can use them to execute functions, create classes, or do other stuff as needed.

[dougmcc1]

So when would one use SSI in lieu of PHP includes?

[lorax]

That's a big question.

It really depends upon what you're trying to accomplish and what you want to accomplish in the future. If all you're trying to do is streamline your site maintenance by reusing common code (i.e. a single file for common navigation or header, etc.) then I'd suggest you use SSI.

I tend to use PHP includes only if:
A. my files are already in PHP
B. I need to preprocess something and use the result
C. I want to be sure the include file is included (require) or else stop where you are

HTH

[bilalak]

I do not suggest SSI unless there is no PHP equivalent or it is not secure to include others code in the main PHP script.

[dougmcc1]

Can you give an example when it wouldn't be secure to use a PHP include?