How do I use arrays as session variables in PHP and how does their behavior work across multiple page requests?

Array as Session Variable in PHP

In PHP, it is possible to store arrays as session variables. This provides a convenient way to maintain stateful information across multiple page requests.

Example:

To create a session array to store a list of names, use the following code:

<code class="php"><?php
session_start();

$_SESSION['names'] = array('John', 'Jane', 'Bob');
?></code>

Your Specific Scenario:

In your described scenario, you have three pages:

• Page 1: Displays a table with links to page 2.
• Page 2: Contains a list of names with checkboxes.
• Page 3: Processes the form submission and saves the selected names to a database.

When you click a link on page 1, a session is started or resumed. The session variable $_SESSION['names'] will initially be empty.

When you navigate to page 2, the session array $_SESSION['names'] is loaded with the values you specify. If you submit the form without changing the array, it will contain the same values.

However, if you click another link on page 1, the session variable $_SESSION['names'] will not change until you modify it on page 2. It will retain the values from the previous page 2 visit.

Conclusion:

PHP supports using arrays as session variables, allowing you to maintain stateful information across multiple page requests. The session array will not change until you explicitly modify it within the same session.

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