How can PHP developers ensure that URLs are stored consistently in a data file to facilitate accurate comparison and validation processes?

When storing URLs in a data file, PHP developers can ensure consistency by using a standardized format for all URLs. This can include ensuring that all URLs are stored with the same protocol (e.g., https://), domain format (e.g., www.example.com), and any necessary query parameters. By establishing a uniform structure for storing URLs, developers can easily compare and validate them during processing.

// Example of storing URLs consistently in a data file
$urls = [
    'https://www.example.com/page1',
    'https://www.example.com/page2',
    'https://www.example.com/page3?param=value',
];

// Validate URLs stored in the data file
foreach ($urls as $url) {
    if (filter_var($url, FILTER_VALIDATE_URL) === false) {
        echo "Invalid URL: $url\n";
    } else {
        echo "Valid URL: $url\n";
    }
}