Protect Code

[Mary]

I am trying to determine the best way to protect PHP sourcecode, and was wondering if anyone had any suggestions?

I've seen products like PHP Lockit!, do you know if programs like that actually work?

_____________________

Web Design London
Walking Sticks

[mwinter]

I am trying to determine the best way to protect PHP sourcecode ...

Against whom?

I've seen products like PHP Lockit!, do you know if programs like that actually work?

Well apparently not that one. A review [PDF] shows that not only can its output be reversed, but that it may actually break code. In fact, even the FAQ for the product suggests these things (if you know what you're looking for).

Mike

[boxxertrumps]

you can steal php source code? that shouldn't be possible....

its sent from the server as html.... odd...

[djr33]

The only time you php source would be available is if you gave someone access to your server and/or sent them the files.
If you're planning to sell the scripts, it might make some sense to secure it.
However, since it must be interpreted by the php parsing engine anyway, there's a very likely chance that it's reversable if the person knows enough.