detect duplicate insert

Question

Is there an easier way to prevent a duplicate insert after refresh? The way I do it now is to select everything with the all fields except ID as parameters; if a record exists i don't insert. Is there a way to possible detect refresh?

Answer 1

I second the option to redirect a user to another (confirmation) page after the request has been submitted (a record inserted into the database). That way they will not be able to do a refresh.

You could also have a flag that indicates whether the insert request has been submitted and store it either on the page (with javascript) or in the session. You could also go further and store it somewhere else but that's an architectural decision on the part of your web application.

If you're using an AJAX request to insert a record then it's a bit harder to prevent this on the client side.

I'd rather do an indicator/flag then compare the fields. This, of course, depends on your records. For example, if it is a simple shop and the user wants to make an identical order then you will treat it as a duplicate order and effectively prevent the functionality.