The PHP programming language is thoroughly examined in this guide for programmers looking to transfer their skills from the interface of a green-screen environment to using web-enabled technologies. As developers are experiencing more demand for such technologies, PHP programming language has become the language of choice for many developers who are required to obtain more web-friendly skills. Commonly used features are discussed and look beyond the PHP language itself to help programmers begin building highly interactive web-based applications. PHP's flexible and forgiving programming style was designed to be the ideal environment for ease of building both simple and complex web-based applications in the most effective manner possible while still giving programmers the control they need. Sample topics include how to build basic PHP applications, how to access local and remote resources, how to access System i DB2 database tables from PHP, how to install and access MySQL databases on the System I, the basics of internet security, structuring a PHP application, and accessing external data sources.