Using the three free, open-source and original system components (PHP, MySQL, and phpMyAdmin) to develop, test, and deploy Web applications locally is almost the only best option available at the moment. Thereinto, Apache Web server and PHP hypertext preprocessor are preinstalled on Mac. But they are not enabled by default, and the pre-installed version of PHP lacks many utility features. The MySQL needs to be installed and configured separately. Unless you are able to expertly use command lines in Terminal, installing the one-stop solution MAMP (PRO) is much simpler and more efficient.

If you're done with Larry Ullman's PHP for the Web: Visual QuickStart Guide, then I guess you can't wait to read Larry Ullman's other books. This case, his PHP and MySQL for Dynamic Web Sites: Visual QuickPro Guide is just the next book about PHP and MySQL you need to read, which is also very suitable for beginners. After reading this book, you will be able to develop some simple yet practical website based applications.

For developing web-based and database driven high-performance, dynamic Web applications at express speed, PHP (powerful scripting language) and MySQL (quick and reliable database) are absolutely the only pair of best partners. Tutorials about them, I came close to forget this classic bible-level PHP and MySQL Web Development, Fourth Edition (although a bit old without involving the newest features).

For beginners coming to website back-end development, if you are looking for a book that can really let you, in a short period of time, learn how to use PHP, MySQL, and JavaScript these three primary web development techniques to create dynamic, interactive web sites or applications, then do not miss Sams Teach Yourself PHP, MySQL & JavaScript All in One in Sams Teach Yourself series.

The classic PHP has won a rebirth, so it's time for the modern PHP to throw away its old burden and follow better practices. But almost all the existing PHP books and online tutorials have been out of date for a long time, such that it is difficult to reflect the new features and good practices of modern PHP.