How can PHP developers ensure their scripts are secure and compliant with server restrictions like open_basedir?

PHP developers can ensure their scripts are secure and compliant with server restrictions like open_basedir by using the realpath() function to resolve paths to their absolute form before performing any file operations. This ensures that the paths are within the allowed directory specified by open_basedir. Developers should also validate user input to prevent directory traversal attacks.

$directory = '/path/to/directory';

// Resolve the absolute path
$absolute_path = realpath($directory);

if ($absolute_path && strpos($absolute_path, '/allowed/directory') === 0) {
    // Perform file operations within the allowed directory
} else {
    // Handle error or restrict access
}