Is using .htaccess to protect directories a common method for securing PHP applications?

Using .htaccess to protect directories is a common method for securing PHP applications. By setting up password protection on specific directories using .htaccess files, you can restrict access to those directories to only authorized users. This adds an extra layer of security to your PHP application and helps prevent unauthorized access to sensitive files.

// .htaccess file content to protect a directory
AuthType Basic
AuthName "Restricted Area"
AuthUserFile /path/to/.htpasswd
Require valid-user