PHP FilesystemIterator::rewind() Method: Usage and Examples

FilesystemIterator::rewind() Method is one of the PHP operations used in filesystem and stream workflows. Moves a FilesystemIterator back to its first visible entry. The examples below show what it does and how to handle its result.

What Is FilesystemIterator::rewind() Method?

Moves a FilesystemIterator back to its first visible entry.

Its syntax is:

FilesystemIterator::rewind()

This function or method takes no parameters.

Return value: This method returns no value.

Important: SKIP_DOTS normally skips dot entries; directory order is filesystem-dependent.

Example 1: Basic Usage

The basic example focuses on the behavior of FilesystemIterator::rewind() Method: moves a FilesystemIterator back to its first visible entry. Inputs are defined locally or shown as application-controlled paths.

<?php

$entries = new FilesystemIterator(__DIR__, FilesystemIterator::SKIP_DOTS);
$entries->next();
$entries->rewind();
if ($entries->valid()) { echo $entries->key(); }

The displayed value, file content or return status depends on the input and surrounding environment. Results involving local paths, identifiers or generated files are not fixed values.

Example 2: A Different Use Case

This second example illustrates another input or execution condition for FilesystemIterator::rewind() Method. Notice the different checks, arguments, or output handling.

<?php

$entries = new FilesystemIterator(__DIR__, FilesystemIterator::SKIP_DOTS);
foreach ($entries as $entry) { break; }
$entries->rewind();
if ($entries->valid()) { echo $entries->current()->getFilename(); }

This variation matters because sKIP_DOTS normally skips dot entries; directory order is filesystem-dependent.

Practical Example: Using the Operation in an Application

The following example demonstrates how FilesystemIterator::rewind() Method fits into a more complete file or archive workflow, including inputs and appropriate checks.

<?php

$iterator = new FilesystemIterator(__DIR__, FilesystemIterator::SKIP_DOTS);
$iterator->rewind();
while ($iterator->valid()) { if ($iterator->current()->isFile()) { echo $iterator->key() . "\n"; } $iterator->next(); }

The operation shown is an illustrative script. Adapt the filenames, required permissions, and error handling to your own controlled application environment before running it.

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

• Function behavior: Moves a FilesystemIterator back to its first visible entry.
• Limitation: SKIP_DOTS normally skips dot entries; directory order is filesystem-dependent.

Comparison With Related Functions

Use FilesystemIterator::rewind() Method for the specific behavior described above. The related operation, FilesystemIterator::next(), serves a different purpose; do not substitute it unless that different behavior is intended.

Common Beginner Mistakes

Key Takeaways

• Moves a FilesystemIterator back to its first visible entry.
• SKIP_DOTS normally skips dot entries; directory order is filesystem-dependent.
• Related operation: FilesystemIterator::next() — Moves forward by one entry rather than resetting iteration.

FilesystemIterator::rewind() Method is useful when its specific behavior matches your application requirement. Keep paths controlled, check failures, and handle environment-dependent operations deliberately.