How can prepared statements and mysqli_multi_query be used to improve the efficiency and security of database operations in PHP?

Using prepared statements and mysqli_multi_query in PHP can improve efficiency and security of database operations by allowing for the reuse of query templates, which reduces parsing time and optimizes query execution. Prepared statements also help prevent SQL injection attacks by automatically escaping input parameters. mysqli_multi_query can be used to execute multiple queries in a single call, reducing the number of round trips to the database server.

// Example using prepared statements and mysqli_multi_query

// Establish a database connection
$mysqli = new mysqli("localhost", "username", "password", "database");

// Prepare a statement with placeholders
$stmt = $mysqli->prepare("INSERT INTO users (username, email) VALUES (?, ?)");

// Bind parameters to the placeholders
$stmt->bind_param("ss", $username, $email);

// Set parameters and execute the statement
$username = "john_doe";
$email = "john.doe@example.com";
$stmt->execute();

// Close the statement
$stmt->close();

// Use mysqli_multi_query to execute multiple queries in a single call
$mysqli->multi_query("INSERT INTO users (username, email) VALUES ('jane_doe', 'jane.doe@example.com'); UPDATE users SET email = 'new_email@example.com' WHERE username = 'john_doe';");

// Close the database connection
$mysqli->close();