Content · Programming · PHP

PHP readline_write_history() Function: Usage and Examples

Learn PHP readline_write_history() through clear code examples, practical usage, important limitations and common mistakes.

1 views Published Oct 16, 2026 Updated Oct 16, 2026

readline_write_history() writes readline history entries to a file. This guide explains the function with focused examples and the decisions that matter in real applications.

What Is readline_write_history() in PHP?

Writes readline history entries to a file.

A typical call looks like this:

<?php

readline_write_history([$filename]);

The input arguments shown in the call identify the relevant connection, resource, value, path or configuration for the operation. Pay attention to argument order and to the return value demonstrated below.

Example 1: Basic Usage

This first example uses readline_write_history() directly to demonstrate its basic purpose.

<?php

readline_add_history("status"); readline_write_history(sys_get_temp_dir() . "/demo-history.txt");

The returned value illustrates writes readline history entries to a file. Protect the history file with appropriate permissions.

Example 2: A Different Input or Option

The next example changes the input or option, showing another supported use of readline_write_history().

<?php

readline_add_history("help"); var_dump(readline_write_history(__DIR__ . "/cli-history.txt"));

The returned value illustrates writes readline history entries to a file. Protect the history file with appropriate permissions.

Practical Example: Applying the Function

In application code, readline_write_history() belongs in a controlled workflow with input validation, a checked result and cleanup where needed.

<?php

$historyPath = sys_get_temp_dir() . "/commands-history.txt"; readline_write_history($historyPath); echo "Saved history";

The returned value illustrates writes readline history entries to a file. Protect the history file with appropriate permissions.

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

  • Main behavior: Writes readline history entries to a file.
  • Important limitation: Protect the history file with appropriate permissions.
  • Requirements: This function uses the CLI readline extension; it is not designed for an ordinary web request.

Comparison With Related Functions

Function or ApproachWhen to Use It
readline_write_history()Writes readline history entries to a file.
readline_read_historyLoads readline history entries from a file.

Common Beginner Mistakes

MistakeCorrect Approach
Ignoring the specific limits or preconditions of readline_write_history().Protect the history file with appropriate permissions.
Assuming every environment produces the same result.This function uses the CLI readline extension; it is not designed for an ordinary web request.

Key Takeaways

  • Writes readline history entries to a file.
  • Protect the history file with appropriate permissions.
  • This function uses the CLI readline extension; it is not designed for an ordinary web request.

Use readline_write_history() when its behavior matches your task, and verify the relevant return value before taking further action. The output depends on the local configuration when it uses resources, files or an interactive terminal.

Share this resourceSend this page to someone who may find it useful.