PHP stat() returns metadata about a file path, including size and modification time. The examples below show how the call behaves, where it is useful, and which limitations matter.
What Is stat() in PHP?
Returns metadata about a file path, including size and modification time.
Its call structure is:
stat($filename)The arguments identify the values or resources passed to stat(). Read the examples with attention to the type of each supplied argument and to whether the function modifies its input or returns a separate result.
Example 1: Basic Usage
This example introduces stat with a direct call and a small, readable input.
<?php
print_r(stat(__FILE__)["size"]);Returns metadata about a file path, including size and modification time. stat() follows symbolic links; lstat() reports properties of the link itself.
Example 2: Another Behavior or Input
Compare this input with the previous example: changing the data or option can affect how stat behaves.
<?php
$details = stat(__FILE__); echo date("Y-m-d", $details["mtime"]);The changed input illustrates why output may differ with the chosen values or environment. stat() follows symbolic links; lstat() reports properties of the link itself.
Practical Example: Using the Feature
The following example incorporates stat into a workflow. Values such as paths, connection handles and configuration options must come from trusted application settings.
<?php
$details = @stat($filePath); if ($details !== false) { echo "Bytes: " . $details["size"]; }In a real application, check each operation result, validate values before use and clean up acquired resources. stat() follows symbolic links; lstat() reports properties of the link itself.
Important Behavior and Edge Cases
- Purpose: Returns metadata about a file path, including size and modification time.
- Key limitation: stat() follows symbolic links; lstat() reports properties of the link itself.
- Failure handling: Check return values and handle invalid inputs and unavailable operating-system or extension features where relevant.
Comparison With Related Functions
| Function or Approach | Best Fit |
|---|---|
stat() | Returns metadata about a file path, including size and modification time. |
lstat() | Inspects the symbolic link itself, while stat() follows the link. |
Common Beginner Mistakes
| Mistake | Correct Approach |
|---|---|
| stat() follows symbolic links; lstat() reports properties of the link itself. | The correct approach depends on this behavior: stat() follows symbolic links; lstat() reports properties of the link itself. |
| Ignoring errors or cleanup after the operation. | Validate inputs and check each result; close files, restore settings or release resources when the operation requires it. |
Key Takeaways
- Returns metadata about a file path, including size and modification time.
- stat() follows symbolic links; lstat() reports properties of the link itself.
- Use the examples as starting points, and adapt environmental paths, resources and permissions rather than assuming fixed results.
stat is useful when its specific behavior fits the problem. The safest implementations combine the correct API with input validation, error checking and resource cleanup.