PHP header_remove() Function: Usage and Examples

Use header_remove() when you need to removes previously scheduled HTTP response headers in a PHP application. The examples below show the actual operation and its limitations.

What Is header_remove() in PHP?

Removes previously scheduled HTTP response headers. The exact signature supported by your installation depends on its PHP version and enabled extensions.

Its syntax is:

header_remove(?string $name = ...): void

Parameters and return value: The parameter types, optional arguments, references, and return type are shown in the signature above. Optional parameters are marked with an ellipsis in this reference signature.

Example 1: Basic Usage

<?php

if (!headers_sent()) { header("X-Example: active"); header_remove("X-Example"); } echo "Processed";

Result: Run the example in an environment that supports the function. Any values depending on operating-system state, installed extensions, process configuration, or network access must be checked on the target server.

Example 2: Different Input or Behavior

<?php

if (!headers_sent()) { header("X-Demo: present"); header_remove("X-Demo"); } echo "Header removed";

Result: Run the example in an environment that supports the function. Any values depending on operating-system state, installed extensions, process configuration, or network access must be checked on the target server.

Practical Example: Applying the Function

<?php

$headerName = "X-Temporary"; if (!headers_sent()) { header($headerName . ": temporary"); header_remove($headerName); } echo "Temporary header cleared";

Result: Run the example in an environment that supports the function. Any values depending on operating-system state, installed extensions, process configuration, or network access must be checked on the target server.

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

Removing a header cannot retract bytes or headers already sent to a client.

Comparison With Related Functions

Common Beginner Mistakes

Key Takeaways

• Removes previously scheduled HTTP response headers.
• Removing a header cannot retract bytes or headers already sent to a client.
• header() adds or replaces response headers; header_remove() removes a pending header.

Use header_remove() for the specific operation demonstrated above. Check its prerequisites and handle failure conditions before using it with production data.