How to create pretty URL's with a custom MVC Framework in PHP?

Question

So, I am beginning the process of coding a PHP application website, which will be coded in the MVC architecture,but would like to implement the method of using Pretty URL's with it. Since I have never created my own Pretty URL code before, I'm not sure where to start. In the past, I would use query string URL's(I think that's the correct term to use) such as example.com/index.php?act=controller&sub=method&id=123456... With this website, I would prefer the URL's to be something more like example.com/controller/method/article-title/123456. But, like I said, I'm not even sure of where to start.

How would I point the URL correctly if... The method provided isn't found, is invalid, or not provided at all? example.com/controller/article-title/123456 (would point to example.com/provided-controller/default-method/page-title/123456

The method provided is found, is valid, and is provided, but no controller is found or is invalid or is not provided? example.com/article-title/123456 (should point to example.com/default-controller/provided-method/123456)

I hope I am being clear on everything and that you get what I'm talking about. Basically, I want to do something like the CodeIgniter URL Router system.

Thanks for your time!

Answer 1

Assuming you are not using an existing MVC framework that already gives you this, and that you want to create your own, my suggestion would be for you to implement a Front Controller. Here is a tutorial on how to do it: http://onlamp.com/pub/a/php/2004/07/08/front_controller.html

You can also take a look at an extremly simple example here: What is a Front Controller and how is it implemented in PHP?