How do I create a database if it doesn't exist, using PHP?

Question

How do I create a database if it doesn\'t exist, using PHP?

Answer 1

Since you mention WAMP I'll assume you're talking about MySQL.

It can be tricky. Assuming that your PHP script runs with all the required credentials (which is by itself a questionable idea), you can run this query:

SHOW DATABASES

If the DB does not show up there, you can assume it doesn't exist and create it with one of these queries:

CREATE DATABASE foo ....

or:

CREATE DATABASE IF NOT EXISTS foo ...

Right after that, you need to check the return value for whatever PHP function you are using (e.g. mysql_query). The above queries will fail if your user is now allowed to see all the existing databases or it's not allowed to create new databases.

In general, I find the whole concept kind of scary. Handle it with care! ;-)