Framework

A framework is a library of code and practices that helps building PHP applications. Frameworks provide common features, such as forms, authentications, templating, database access and security.

Frameworks are often described as a platform: they stand as a layer above PHP, with its own conventions and behaviors. PHP is the language of the framework, and the language used to extends the framework.

Frameworks provides a set of tools and components to build applications, though they usually do not provide a comprehensive service out of the box: the framework must be used to build the application, usually in an original and creative way. For example, a framework may be used to build a forum or a CMS, while the opposite is rarely possible.

There are lots of frameworks in PHP. In alphabetical order, here are some of them:

• Aura

• Bolt CMS

• Code Igniter

• CakePHP

• Cappucino

• Drupal

• e107

• FuelPHP

• Gyroscope

• Hyperf

• Ibexa

• Joomla

• Koala

• Laminas

• Laravel

• Leafphp

• Light-php

• LightMVC

• Lithium

• Medoo

• Nette

• October

• Phalcon

• Prado

• Qcodo

• redcatphp

• Slim

• Symfony

• Typo3

• Ubiquity

• Vanilla PHP

• Wordpress

• X

• Yii

• Zend Framework

This is not an exhaustive list.

See also PHP framework list and 10 Best PHP Frameworks for Web Development in 2025.

Related : Form, Authentication, Security, Template, Database, Content Management System (CMS), Forum, Laravel, NativePHP, Symfony, Tempest, Library, Marketplace, Micro-framework, Spiral, Xdebug