What are the advantages and disadvantages of using localStorage in JavaScript to count downloads compared to updating a MySQL database directly?

When counting downloads in JavaScript, using localStorage can be advantageous as it allows for quick and easy storage of data on the client-side without the need for server interaction. However, it may not be as reliable as updating a MySQL database directly, as localStorage data can be easily manipulated or lost. Updating a MySQL database directly ensures data integrity and persistence, but it requires server-side processing and can be slower.

// Assuming a database connection is already established

// Increment download count in MySQL database
$download_id = $_GET['download_id']; // Assuming download_id is passed in the URL
$query = "UPDATE downloads SET count = count + 1 WHERE id = $download_id";
$result = mysqli_query($conn, $query);

if($result) {
    echo "Download count updated successfully.";
} else {
    echo "Error updating download count: " . mysqli_error($conn);
}