Drupal 6.x

This tutorial describes how to create a module for Drupal 6. It is an update to the tutorial for Drupal 5. Please see comments there, as well. Much of this tutorial is valid for Drupal 5 as well, but you should check the API documentation, as well as the documentation on how to update your modules from one version of Drupal to another.

A module is a collection of functions that link into Drupal, providing additional functionality to your Drupal installation. After reading this tutorial, you will be able to create a basic block module and use it as a template for more advanced modules and node modules.

This tutorial will not necessarily prepare you to write modules for release into the wild. It does not cover caching, nor does it elaborate on permissions or security issues. Use this tutorial as a starting point, and review other modules and the Drupal handbook, the documentation on writing secure code and the Coding standards for more information.

This tutorial assumes you have:

• Basic PHP knowledge, including syntax and the concept of PHP objects

The following modules help you organize, classify and tag content.

This section contains links to resources for creating your own online community or social network, by enabling or encouraging your site's users to interact with one another.

The Organic Groups module, which enables the creation and management of groups and micro-sites within your site, will also be of interest.