What is the difference between require() and include() in PHP, and when would you use each one?

What is the difference between require() and include() in PHP, and when would you use each one?

In PHP, both require() and include() are used to include and evaluate another PHP file within the current script. The main difference between require() and include() is how they handle errors:

• require(): When a file is included using require() and PHP cannot find the specified file, it will stop the script execution and generate a fatal error. It is recommended to use require() when the included file is essential for the script to run.
• include(): When a file is included using include() and PHP cannot find the specified file, it will generate a warning and continue the script execution. It is recommended to use include() when the included file is optional for the script to run.

Choose require() when the included file is crucial for the script to function correctly, and any missing file should stop the script. Use include() when the included file is not essential and the script can continue to run even if the file is missing or not found.

It's important to note that including files using require() or include() can also affect performance, as require() generates a fatal error, which stops the script execution, while include() generates a warning and continues execution.