How to Force CSV File Downloads in PHP?

Generating File Downloads Using PHP

Problem:

When users click a link, a CSV file opens in the browser window instead of being downloaded.

Code Snippet:

<a href="files/csv/example/example.csv">
    Click here to download an example of the "CSV" file
</a>

Web Server Configuration:

• Ensure the web server is properly configured for serving files.

Approach 1: .htaccess Solution

To force all CSV files on the server to download:

AddType application/octet-stream csv

Approach 2: PHP Solution

To force a specific CSV file to download:

header('Content-Type: application/csv');
header('Content-Disposition: attachment; filename=example.csv');
header('Pragma: no-cache');
readfile("/path/to/yourfile.csv");

Notes:

• The Content-Type header specifies the MIME type of the file.
• The Content-Disposition header sets the file's name and disposition (e.g., attachment for downloading).
• The Pragma header prevents caching of the file.
• The readfile() function sends the contents of the CSV file to the browser.

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