In cases where PHP functions like mysql_connect() suddenly stop working, what steps should be taken to diagnose and resolve the issue effectively?

If PHP functions like mysql_connect() suddenly stop working, it could be due to various reasons such as incorrect server settings, deprecated functions, or missing extensions. To diagnose and resolve the issue effectively, check the PHP error logs for any relevant error messages, ensure the MySQL extension is enabled in your PHP configuration, and consider updating your code to use MySQLi or PDO instead.

// Check PHP error logs for any relevant error messages
// Ensure the MySQL extension is enabled in your PHP configuration
// Update your code to use MySQLi or PDO instead of deprecated functions like mysql_connect()

// Example using MySQLi
$servername = "localhost";
$username = "username";
$password = "password";
$dbname = "database";

// Create connection
$conn = new mysqli($servername, $username, $password, $dbname);

// Check connection
if ($conn->connect_error) {
    die("Connection failed: " . $conn->connect_error);
}
echo "Connected successfully";