Can MySQL Triggers Execute External PHP Scripts Upon Record Insertion?

Invoking a PHP Script from a MySQL Trigger

Question: Can a PHP script or function be executed when a record is inserted into a MySQL database table, even if the record insertion procedure is not under user control? Is there a trigger mechanism that can make this happen?

Answer:

In this scenario, the trigger is executed on the MySQL server, not the PHP server. Therefore, it's not directly possible to invoke a PHP script.

However, according to the MySQL FAQ on Triggers, triggers can call external applications through a UDF (User-Defined Function).

Specifically, triggers can leverage the sys_exec() UDF. This function allows for the execution of external commands, including PHP scripts.

Implementation:

While the process is not straightforward, it is possible to set up a UDF to launch a PHP executable or script. This requires:

1. Creating the UDF function in MySQL
2. Ensuring the PHP executable is reachable from the MySQL server
3. Writing the PHP script to handle the desired task

By utilizing the sys_exec() UDF, triggers can call external programs, providing a potential workaround for invoking PHP scripts when database records are inserted.

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