CakePHP is a rapid development framework for PHP which uses commonly known design patterns like ActiveRecord, Association Data Mapping, Front Controller, and MVC. The primary goal is to provide a structured framework that enables PHP users at all levels to rapidly develop robust web applications, without any loss to flexibility. The CakePHP codebase itself has been audited through the Mozilla Secure Open Source program. CakePHP is licensed under the MIT license, which makes it perfect for use in commercial applications. Commercial use, modification, distribution, sub-licensing, and private use are permitted. CakePHP is not to be held liable, but users must include copyright and license notices.
Understanding the CakePHP 3.x Skeleton Application
A skeleton for creating applications with CakePHP 3.x is available. The framework source code can be found at the official CakePHP repository. To set up a new application, users must download Composer or update it using composer self-update. Once Composer is ready, the project can be created by running php composer.phar create-project --prefer-dist cakephp/app [app_name]. If Composer is installed globally, the command is composer create-project --prefer-dist cakephp/app. For those wishing to use a custom application directory name, such as /myapp/, the command would be composer create-project --prefer-dist cakephp/app myapp.
After installation, the default home page can be viewed using the machine's web server. Alternatively, the built-in web server can be started with bin/cake server -p 8765. The application is then accessible at http://localhost:8765. Since the skeleton is a starting point and various files are modified according to user needs, there is no way to provide automated upgrades. Users must perform updates manually. It is recommended to read and edit config/app.php to set up the 'Datasources' and any other relevant configuration.
Commercial and Enterprise Use of CakePHP
CakeDC is the commercial entity behind the CakePHP framework, established by Larry Masters, the founder of CakePHP. CakeDC offers CakePHP development, consultancy, training, and code review services. From startups and social networks to e-commerce and enterprise-level applications, CakeDC provides the highest quality CakePHP development available. The framework allows modular development that makes sense, and it is architecturally solid and performant.
Users have reported that converting a custom PHP app to CakePHP resulted in a high return on investment. The continually expanding suite of utilities, plugins, and development patterns is highly valued. CakePHP was the most efficient way to rapidly develop intricate systems. It is capable of handling high volumes of users without issues. It has been used for everything from the simplest micro kiosk app to highly complex gallery management apps. Inheriting a CakePHP project often leads to continuing its use after seeing the power and functionality of the framework in action.
Technical Features and Development Workflow
CakePHP includes built-in code generation and scaffolding features to rapidly build prototypes. There are no complicated XML or YAML files required. Users simply set up the database and are ready to bake. The framework includes the necessary tools for development out of the box. It uses commonly known design patterns to ensure a structured approach. This structure enables rapid development of robust web applications.
The framework is designed to be efficient. It handles high volumes of traffic effectively. The architecture supports modular development. This makes it easier to manage complex applications. The absence of complicated configuration files speeds up the initial setup. Developers can focus on application logic rather than boilerplate configuration.
Licensing and Legal Considerations
The MIT license under which CakePHP is distributed allows for extensive freedom. Users can use the software in commercial applications. They can modify it, distribute it, and sub-license it. Private use is also permitted. However, the software is provided "as is." Holders of the copyright are not liable for any damages. Users must include the copyright notice and the license text in any distribution.
It is noted that the details provided are for information only. They do not constitute legal advice. Users should not treat them as such. For specific legal concerns regarding the use of the framework in commercial projects, consulting a legal professional is advisable.
Installation and Configuration Steps
To install CakePHP 3.x, the following steps are generally required:
- Ensure Composer is installed and up to date.
- Run the create-project command appropriate for the desired installation path.
- Access the application via the local web server or the built-in server.
- Edit
config/app.phpto define DataSources and other configurations.
The command for a standard installation is composer create-project --prefer-dist cakephp/app. For a custom directory named myapp, the command is composer create-project --prefer-dist cakephp/app myapp. The built-in server is started with bin/cake server -p 8765. Manual updates are required as automated upgrades are not supported due to file modifications.
Handling High-Volume Applications
Several users have testified to CakePHP's ability to handle high volumes of users. It was chosen as the platform for intricate systems where efficiency was a priority. It delivered on the requirement to handle high user loads without issues. The framework is described as architecturally solid and performant. This makes it suitable for enterprise-level applications.
Whether building a micro kiosk or a complex gallery management app, CakePHP is presented as the framework of choice. It allows for modular development that maintains structural integrity. The ability to rapidly develop prototypes using code generation and scaffolding contributes to its efficiency in handling complex projects.
Summary of Capabilities
CakePHP provides a structured framework for rapid development. It leverages standard design patterns. It is licensed permissively under the MIT license. The commercial support entity, CakeDC, offers services for enterprises. Installation relies on Composer. Configuration is handled via PHP files. The framework is designed to be performant and scalable.
The provided source material does not contain specific details regarding free samples, promotional offers, no-cost product trials, brand freebies, or mail-in sample programmes. Consequently, the article focuses exclusively on the technical aspects of the CakePHP 3.x sample project and framework as detailed in the source data.
Conclusion
The available information details the installation, configuration, and commercial utility of the CakePHP 3.x framework. It highlights the ease of setup via Composer, the flexibility granted by the MIT license, and the proven performance in high-volume environments. Users seeking to develop PHP applications can utilize the provided skeleton and commands to initiate projects. Commercial support is available through CakeDC. All updates must be performed manually.