How can the $_SERVER['HTTP_USER_AGENT'] variable be utilized for browser detection in PHP?

The $_SERVER['HTTP_USER_AGENT'] variable can be utilized for browser detection in PHP by checking the user agent string it contains. This string typically includes information about the browser and operating system being used to access the website. By parsing this string, developers can determine the type of browser and device accessing their site, allowing them to customize the user experience accordingly.

$user_agent = $_SERVER['HTTP_USER_AGENT'];

if (strpos($user_agent, 'MSIE') !== false) {
    echo "You are using Internet Explorer.";
} elseif (strpos($user_agent, 'Firefox') !== false) {
    echo "You are using Firefox.";
} elseif (strpos($user_agent, 'Chrome') !== false) {
    echo "You are using Chrome.";
} else {
    echo "You are using a different browser.";
}