Difference between include() and require() in PHP

In PHP, the main difference between include() and require() functions is how they handle errors when the file being included is not found or cannot be opened.

include()

The include() function includes and evaluates a specified file during the execution of the script. If the file is not found, a warning is issued, but the script continues to execute.

require()

The require() function also includes and evaluates a specified file during the execution of the script. However, if the file is not found, a fatal error is issued, and the script execution stops.

When to Use One Over the Other

Use include() when the file being included is not essential for the script to run, and you want the script to continue executing even if the included file is not found.

Use require() when the file being included is essential for the script to run, and you want the script execution to stop if the included file is not found.