[Resolved] Creating Dynamic Filename

endlyss

I'm writing an employment application script (for my own use) that captures user data from forms divided into multiple pages.

I need to be able to create a file unique to each user. It doesn't really matter what it is called or lettered or numbered, it just matters I know what the name of the file will be so I can write to it from continuing pages.

I am using text files and not using a database for the data because the data will not be stored on the server.

$l_name$f_name works great as a file name but I'm having trouble accessing and writing to the file from ensuing pages.

What is an easy, foolproof way to create a unique filename for each user that has a predictable filename so it can be found from later pages? Or any better ways to do this.

Thank you.

sfullman

what if you have to john smiths. I suggest you establish a unique username (which might be used in other ways as well), or use their SSN or other unique identifier.

so you'd have
jsmith
jsmith1
jsmith2

also, you must think about replacing " and ' in names, like O'Neil for example, and the - in Catherine Zeta-Jones

if you're good in mysql try the attached function to generate a username

you MUST have set the permissions of the php daemon (usually nobody or apache) to be able to write the file, then

$fp = @fopen($filename, 'w');

fwrite($fp, $filestring);

fclose($fp);

It's really pretty simple.
You might check as to the existence of the file and handle this as well.

Sam

sfullman

here's the attachment

endlyss

Well. I was kind of trying to stay away from a database for this because of security concerns and speed. I would like to just print the info out and delete the file.

endlyss

How about passing the $filename across the pages? I'm having trouble getting that to work though.

I'm trying to pass the variable from...

form> to php script that writes to file and redirects to next form page> then another writing php script and another redirect to another form with the same file being accessed and appended.

I can pass the variable through...

header("location:app2.php?$variable");

but that does not seem very secure.

endlyss

Ok, I think I've got it. Thanks!