What are the potential pitfalls of using file-based storage for tracking time intervals in PHP scripts?

Potential pitfalls of using file-based storage for tracking time intervals in PHP scripts include slower performance due to frequent read and write operations, potential data corruption if multiple scripts try to access the file simultaneously, and increased complexity in managing the file and ensuring data integrity. To mitigate these issues, consider using a database or an in-memory storage solution like Redis to track time intervals more efficiently and reliably.

// Example of using Redis for tracking time intervals
$redis = new Redis();
$redis->connect('127.0.0.1', 6379);

// Save start time
$startTime = microtime(true);
$redis->set('start_time', $startTime);

// Perform some operations

// Retrieve start time and calculate elapsed time
$startTime = $redis->get('start_time');
$endTime = microtime(true);
$elapsedTime = $endTime - $startTime;

echo "Elapsed time: " . $elapsedTime . " seconds";

// Clear Redis key
$redis->del('start_time');