PHP Cookies

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PHP Cookies A cookie is often used to identify a user.

What is a Cookie?

A cookie is often used to identify a user. A cookie is a small file that the server embeds on the user's computer. Each time the same computer requests for a page with a browser, it will send the cookie too. With PHP, you can both create and retrieve cookie values.

How to Create a Cookie

The setcookie() function is used to create cookies.

Note: The setcookie() function must appear BEFORE the <html> tag.

Syntax

setcookie(name, value, expire, path, domain);

Example

The following example sets a cookie named "uname" - that expires after ten hours.

<?php 
setcookie("uname", $name, time()+36000);
?>

<html>
<body>

<p>
A cookie was set on this page! The cookie will be active when 
the client has sent the cookie back to the server.
</p>

</body>
</html>

How to Retrieve a Cookie Value

When a cookie is set, PHP uses the cookie name as a variable.

To access a cookie you just refer to the cookie name as a variable.

Tip: Use the isset() function to find out if a cookie has been set.

Example

The following example tests if the uname cookie has been set, and prints an appropriate message.

<html>
<body>

<?php
if (isset($_COOKIE["uname"]))
echo "Welcome " . $_COOKIE["uname"] . "!<br />";
else
echo "You are not logged in!<br />";
?>

</body>
</html>