Very Much a Newbie - PHP & MySql ???

[SnowCool]

I am creating a website that requires PHP. It is a website that will have ultimatly have links 100's of video files.

I have been told that i should you PHP for the website to run better.

I have also been told in order for me to run PHP through dreamweaver i need to set up a MySql database that connects to dreamweaver.

I have downloaded the MySql server and a program called Navicat.

This all confuses me.

1. Why do i need a database to run PHP ?
2. What type of database & tables do i need in this database considering its a website.
3. How do I create these tables. What program do I use to do this ?

[obsidian]

you don't need mySQL to run PHP. however, for a catalog site like you're referring to, it is definitely an advantage to have all your inventory and links stored in the database to speed up the process of the page, but PHP and MySQL are two entirely different tools. as for the website and database question, almost all larger websites in some respects are database driven... at least in part. keeping track of content, memberships, files, etc. are all reasons to learn to use a database when working with webpages.

your best bet to create your tables would be to check into an application similar to phpMyAdmin or other that would give you the GUI interface to start with. eventually, you'll be able to create your tables manually using only SQL statements.

hope this helps clear up some of your understanding.