Learning time...

[Greelmo]

Okay, It's PHP learning time for Greelmo. Question: What do i need to get going. I know i can use freewebs to support PHP, but don't i need a compiler or something, or do i just go for the gold in freewebs?

[CyCo]

try this...
http://us2.php.net/tut.php

[brendandonhue]

I am also learning PHP.
You will want to install a server/PHP to get started.
It can be kinda confusing to configure apache, so you can download a pre-configured kit with Apache, PHP, and MySQL.
http://www.hotscripts.com/cgi-bin/dload.cgi?ID=6659
Then you need to set the file association.
.PHP files should be associated with the program at C:\Apache\php\PHP.EXE if you installed that kit I reccommended.

Then the best starting point is "The Manual" from www.php.net

[pyro]

Yes, I personally have a testing server set up on my computer, running Win XP Home, Abyss Web Server, and PHP 4.3.1... This is nice for easily being able to test PHP scripts, without the hasle of uploading files every time.

However, it may be easier, at least initially to just sign up with a hosting company. If they support PHP, all you will need to do is name you files with a php extention, and you should be good to go.

[Greelmo]

what are some good FREE hosting sites that support php besides freewebs? My computer is a mac, and for some reason, i can't use freewebs.

[brendandonhue]

lycos.co.uk
t35.com

[pyro]

Here are two good places to look:

http://www.free-php-hosting.com/
http://phphosts.codewalkers.com/