The php Function Date_Default_Timezone_Set
The php function date_default_timezone_set is an inbuilt PHP function that sets the default time zone used by all dates and time related functions in the script. This helps in ensuring that the output from the script matches the user’s local time zone.
This function accepts a single parameter timezone_identifier which is mandatory. The timezone_identifier can be in the form of a string or an integer value. The function first appeared in PHP Version 5.1.0 and works with all later versions.
When writing a web application, it is important to ensure that the output of the applications matches the user’s local time zone. This helps in reducing confusion and enables users to get accurate information. In order to achieve this, it is important to use a reliable and accurate PHP function for handling dates and times.
One such function that is commonly used is date_default_timezone_set(). This function is a simple and reliable way to set the default timezone in a script. It is also a good idea to use this function in case your database or server does not have the correct timezone set.
In a WordPress environment, it is common for developers to store dates and times in the MySQL DB as UTC. This can cause issues with plugins that rely on the date_default_timezone_set() function to work. For example, Simply Schedule Appointments uses this function and if the timezone in the server OS and MySQL is not set correctly, SSA will display the wrong data. This can be easily fixed by using a few simple commands.