Glossary: E

Extbase is TYPO3’s official MVC framework for building custom extensions. It is based on the Model-View-Controller (MVC) design pattern and provides a modern, object-oriented foundation for TYPO3-specific development.

Use Cases for Extbase

Extbase is typically used to create structured extensions, such as:

• Database-driven applications (e.g. news, events, products)
• Custom frontend input and display logic
• Deep TYPO3 integration with reusable components

Structure of Extbase (MVC Pattern)

• Model: Defines the data structure and business logic
• View: Responsible for output – usually using Fluid templates
• Controller: Handles flow control and user interaction

Advantages

• Clear separation of concerns (data, logic, output)
• Maintainable and reusable codebase
• Full integration with TYPO3’s core architecture
• Well-documented and widely supported in the community

Typical Use Case

Extbase is commonly used for complex TYPO3 extensions where structured data needs to be stored, edited, and presented – such as in event management, shop systems, or recruitment portals.

An Extension in TYPO3 is a modular component that extends the functionality of the CMS. TYPO3 is designed to remain lightweight at its core and gain additional features via extensions.

Types of Extensions

Extensions can serve various purposes:

• Backend extensions that add administrative tools or configuration modules
• Frontend extensions that render visible content (e.g. forms, calendars)
• Interface extensions that integrate external systems or data sources

Technical Structure

A typical extension resides in typo3conf/ext/ (or in Packages/ for Composer-based installations) and contains:

• PHP classes for business logic
• TCA definitions for data structure configuration
• Fluid templates for output rendering
• Configuration files (e.g. TypoScript, YAML, service definitions)

Advantages

• Modular architecture – include only the features you need
• Clear separation of concerns
• Extensible and update-safe structure

Typical Use Case

Extensions are used whenever you need to expand TYPO3’s capabilities or add new features—whether via the Extension Manager or Composer. Examples include custom data modules, specialized backend tools, or frontend widgets.