What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Smarty for template logic compared to handling logic directly in PHP?

When deciding whether to use Smarty for template logic or handle logic directly in PHP, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. Advantages of using Smarty: 1. Separation of concerns: Smarty allows for a clear separation between presentation and logic, making it easier for designers and developers to work on different aspects of the project. 2. Template caching: Smarty provides built-in caching mechanisms to improve performance by storing compiled templates. 3. Security: Smarty helps prevent common security vulnerabilities by escaping output by default. Disadvantages of using Smarty: 1. Learning curve: Developers may need to learn a new syntax and concepts specific to Smarty. 2. Performance overhead: Adding an extra layer of abstraction with Smarty can potentially impact performance compared to handling logic directly in PHP. 3. Limited functionality: Smarty may not offer as much flexibility and functionality as directly coding in PHP. Overall, the decision to use Smarty for template logic should be based on the specific requirements and constraints of the project.

// Example of handling logic directly in PHP

<?php
// Define variables
$name = "John";
$age = 30;

// Logic for determining if user is over 18
if ($age >= 18) {
    echo $name . " is over 18 years old.";
} else {
    echo $name . " is under 18 years old.";
}
?>