When saving data to the database in the Yii framework, it is mainly implemented through the ActiveRecord model. 1. To create a new record, instantiate the model, load the data and verify it and save it; 2. To update the record, you must first query the existing data and then assign it to save it; 3. When using the load() method for batch assignment, you must mark the security attributes in rules(); 4. When saving the associated data, you should use transactions to ensure consistency. The specific steps include: instantiating the model and filling the data with load(), calling validate() verification, and finally performing save() persistence; when updating, first obtaining records and then assigning values; when involving sensitive fields, you must limit mass assignment; when saving the associated model, you should combine beginTransaction() and try-catch to handle exceptions to ensure data integrity.

When you need to save data to the database using Yii models, the process is pretty straightforward. You mainly work with ActiveRecord models, which handle most of the heavy lifting for you. The key lies in understanding how to prepare your model, validate input, and persist changes to the database.

Creating a New Record

To insert new data into the database, you start by instantiating a new model. This typically looks like:

 $model = new YourModelName();

Then, assign values ??to its attributes. A common way to do this is by using the load() method with data from a form submission:

 $model->load(Yii::$app->request->post());

Before saving, it's a good idea to run validation to make sure the data meets the rules defined in your model (like required fields or format checks):

 if ($model->validate()) {
    $model->save();
}

If you're handling file uploads or more complex logic, you might need to add extra steps before calling save() . Just remember: always check if validation passes first to avoid invalid data being stored.

Updating an Existing Record

Updating data follows a similar pattern, but you start by fetching the existing record. For example:

 $model = YourModelName::findOne($id);

Once you have the model instance, you can either assign values ??manually:

 $model->attribute = 'new value';

Or again use load() to populate multiple fields at once. After that, just call save() again:

 if ($model->load(Yii::$app->request->post()) && $model->validate()) {
    $model->save();
}

One thing to note: when updating, some fields may be restricted based on scenarios or rules. Make sure your model allows modifications to the fields you're trying to update.

Handling Mass Assignment Safely

Yii uses a feature called mass assignment through the load() method, which pulls data from user input and fills model attributes automatically. However, not all attributes should be open to this kind of update — for example, you probably don't want users changing IDs or admin flags directly.

That's where the rules() method in your model comes in handy. By specifying which attributes are safe for mass assignment, you protect sensitive fields. Here's how it looks:

• In your model:

   public function rules()
  {
      Return [
          [['username', 'email'], 'safe'],
          // other rules...
      ];
  }

Only attributes marked as 'safe' will be included when you call load() . If you want to skip validation entirely (not recommended), you can use:

 $model->attributes = $_POST['YourModelName'];

But this skips security checks, so use it carefully.

Saving Related Data

Sometimes you'll need to save related records at the same time — for example, saving a user and their profile in one go. Yii makes this possible using transactions and relationships.

Here's a basic flow:

• Load both models from POST data
• Validate both
• Wrap the saves in a transaction to ensure consistency

 $transaction = Yii::$app->db->beginTransaction();
try {
    if (!$userModel->save() || !$profileModel->save()) {
        throw new \Exception('Failed to save one of the models');
    }
    $transaction->commit();
} catch (\Exception $e) {
    $transaction->rollBack();
    throw $e;
}

This ensures that either both records are saved, or none — avoiding partial updates that could break your app.

And that's basically it. Saving data in Yii using models isn't complicated once you get the hang of it, but there are a few small details (like validation and safe attributes) that can trip you up if you're not careful.

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