Filter_input_array()

Introduction

PHP offers a range of built-in functions for processing user input, and one of these functions is filter_input_array(). This function is used to filter and sanitize an entire array of input data. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed guide on how to use filter_input_array() in PHP, its syntax, and its benefits.

Syntax

The syntax for filter_input_array() is as follows:

filter_input_array ( int $type , mixed $definition [, bool $add_empty = true ] ) : mixed

The function takes three parameters - the type of input (such as INPUT_GET or INPUT_POST), the definition of the filters to apply to the input data, and an optional boolean flag to indicate whether empty input values should be added to the returned array. The function returns the filtered input data on success, or false on failure.

Usage

The filter_input_array() function is used to filter and sanitize an entire array of input data, such as data submitted via a form. For example, the following code uses filter_input_array() to sanitize user input from a form:

<?php

$filters = [
    'name' => FILTER_SANITIZE_STRING,
    'age' => FILTER_VALIDATE_INT,
    'email' => FILTER_VALIDATE_EMAIL,
];

$data = filter_input_array(INPUT_POST, $filters);

In this example, the $filters array is used to define the filters to be applied to the input data. The filter_input_array() function is then used with the INPUT_POST constant to retrieve the input data and apply the filters. The resulting sanitized data is stored in the $data array.

Benefits

Using filter_input_array() can help improve the security and reliability of your PHP application by filtering and sanitizing an entire array of input data at once. By validating input data before processing it, you can ensure that your application only accepts valid data and avoid potential security breaches.

Additionally, using filter functions can help improve the overall quality of your code by making it more readable and maintainable. By separating validation logic from processing logic, you can make your code more modular and easier to debug.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the filter_input_array() function is a useful tool for filtering and sanitizing an entire array of input data in PHP applications. By using it in conjunction with other filter functions, you can improve the security and quality of your code, while also making it easier to read and maintain.