Why is it important to include session_start() in PHP code that utilizes sessions?

It is important to include session_start() in PHP code that utilizes sessions because it initializes a session or resumes an existing one. Without session_start(), the session data will not be accessible across different pages of the website. This function must be called before any output is sent to the browser to avoid any errors related to session manipulation.

<?php
session_start();

// Rest of your PHP code that utilizes sessions
?>