How can the use of file paths impact the functionality of PHP scripts?

Using incorrect file paths in PHP scripts can lead to errors such as "file not found" or "permission denied," ultimately impacting the functionality of the script. To ensure proper file path handling, it's important to use absolute paths or relative paths based on the script's location. Using PHP's built-in `__DIR__` constant can help in constructing reliable file paths.

// Incorrect file path usage
include 'utils/functions.php';

// Correct file path usage
include __DIR__ . '/utils/functions.php';