If you build apache+php correctly, included setting up the MIME types, etc. then you are 'connected' to php anytime you access (the web site) with a file with a .php extension or a file with an embedded php directive. I used this book to set up this apache+php site:
<A HREF=http://www1.fatbrain.com/asp/BookInfo/BookInfo.asp?theisbn=1861002963&from=HAN515>Professional PHP Programming</A>
Most of the information can be gleaned from the apache and php readme files (so if you are on a tight budget, don't feel compelled to purchase); however, this book saved me a lot of time going through the readmes (especially the chapter devoted to apache installation). Also, there is all the good php reference information if you decide to cut some php code. After you get set up, go to this link and pull down some good php packages for your server:
http://www.hotscripts.com/PHP/
The PHP book recommended is not required (the information is in the php and apache readme files), but it made my life much easier when I switched over to a PHP-core. The MySQL part is also helpful, and you will naturally need to set up MySQL, since the 'triple threat' is apache+php+mysql
[Edited by Neo on 03-06-2001 at 12:28 AM]