mySQL is so popular that even counters use mySQL. I never get this one, as using flock can do better and faster than connecting to a database. Do I miss anything here? Maybe something is doable in mySQL but not in a text file for a counter.

Originally posted by qllonceagain
mySQL is so popular that even counters use mySQL. I never get this one, as using flock can do better and faster than connecting to a database. Do I miss anything here? Maybe something is doable in mySQL but not in a text file for a counter.

flock isn't available everywhere (particularly windows boxes, or boxes which have filesystems over NFS etc).

newbies nowadays enter the world of programming with php+mySQL domination, they write every piece of program with php+mySQL without regard to the programming nature

It depends on counter difficulty:

1) if counter must have a power reports and analyzer functions then you must use more power solutions:
recommend to use database PostgreSQL, develope own webserver, and use shared memory buffer and Perl cron module.
2) if counter must be simple you may use usual files without any databases (but if you need to store an IP addresses and other information to have almost real value of unique clicks then I recommend to use MySQL, cause when database will be big you will be needed a faster method to retrieve a data)