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PHP Phar::getSupportedCompression() Method: Usage and Examples

Lists available compression methods for the Phar extension.

1 views Published Oct 17, 2026 Updated Oct 17, 2026

PHAR archives can package multiple resources into a single file. Phar::getSupportedCompression() Method addresses a specific part of that process: lists available compression methods for the Phar extension. The examples distinguish archive-level effects from member-level effects.

What Is Phar::getSupportedCompression() Method?


Lists available compression methods for the Phar extension.

Its syntax is:

Phar::getSupportedCompression()

This function or method takes no parameters.

Return value: The declared return type is array. Support depends on installed zlib or bzip2 extensions.

Important: Support depends on installed zlib or bzip2 extensions.

Example 1: Basic Usage


The basic example focuses on the behavior of Phar::getSupportedCompression() Method: lists available compression methods for the Phar extension. Inputs are defined locally or shown as application-controlled paths.

<?php

print_r(Phar::getSupportedCompression());

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 Phar::getSupportedCompression() Method. Notice the different checks, arguments, or output handling.

<?php

$compressionMethods = Phar::getSupportedCompression();
if (in_array("GZ", $compressionMethods, true)) { echo "gzip archive support"; }

This variation matters because support depends on installed zlib or bzip2 extensions.

Practical Example: Working with Archive Entries


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

<?php

$availableMethods = Phar::getSupportedCompression();
$gzipSupported = in_array("GZ", $availableMethods, true);
var_dump($gzipSupported);

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: Lists available compression methods for the Phar extension.
  • Limitation: Support depends on installed zlib or bzip2 extensions.

Comparison With Related Functions


Function or MethodDifference
Phar::getSupportedCompression() MethodLists available compression methods for the Phar extension.
Phar::canCompress()Answers whether a particular compression type is supported.

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

Common Beginner Mistakes


MistakeCorrect Approach
Confusing archive-level operations with operations on individual entries.Support depends on installed zlib or bzip2 extensions. Confirm the expected archive format, member path and read/write permissions.
Treating Phar::canCompress() as an interchangeable replacement for Phar::getSupportedCompression() Method.Answers whether a particular compression type is supported.

Key Takeaways


  • Lists available compression methods for the Phar extension.
  • Support depends on installed zlib or bzip2 extensions.
  • Related operation: Phar::canCompress() — Answers whether a particular compression type is supported.

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

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