Backend development using PHP involves building the server-side logic that powers websites and applications by handling requests, processing data, and communicating with databases. PHP works on the server to generate dynamic content and manage core features such as user authentication, sessions, cookies, and file handling. Developers can integrate PHP with databases like MySQL to perform CRUD operations and secure applications using password hashing, input validation, and protection against SQL injection. Modern frameworks like Laravel and Symfony provide structured, scalable development with built-in tools for routing, ORM, and API creation. PHP remains a reliable, widely used language for backend development.