In what situations would using array_key_exists() be recommended over isset() when working with arrays like $_COOKIE in PHP?

When working with arrays like $_COOKIE in PHP, using array_key_exists() is recommended over isset() when you specifically want to check if a key exists in the array, regardless of its value. isset() may return false for keys that exist but have a null or empty value, while array_key_exists() will return true as long as the key exists in the array.

// Using array_key_exists() to check if a key exists in $_COOKIE
if (array_key_exists('key_name', $_COOKIE)) {
    // Key exists in $_COOKIE
    $value = $_COOKIE['key_name'];
} else {
    // Key does not exist in $_COOKIE
    $value = null;
}