In PHP, ftp_get() helps with runtime and application data. Downloads a remote file into a local filesystem path using an authenticated FTP connection.
What Is ftp_get() in PHP?
The function or method has a specific purpose: Downloads a remote file into a local filesystem path using an authenticated FTP connection. The following examples show the main call, one additional situation, and an application-style use.
Syntax:
<?php
ftp_get(FTP\Connection $ftp, string $local_filename, string $remote_filename, int $mode = ..., int $offset = ...) : bool
Parameters and Return Value
$ftp(FTP\Connection) — argument used by this API to perform its operation; required.$local_filename(string) — argument used by this API to perform its operation; required.$remote_filename(string) — argument used by this API to perform its operation; required.$mode(int) — argument used by this API to perform its operation; optional.$offset(int) — argument used by this API to perform its operation; optional.
Example 1: Basic Usage
Downloads a remote file into a local filesystem path using an authenticated FTP connection.
<?php
$ftpConnection = ftp_connect("ftp.example.test");
if ($ftpConnection === false) { throw new RuntimeException("FTP unavailable"); }
// After ftp_login(), download an approved remote filename.
$downloaded = ftp_get($ftpConnection, __DIR__ . "/download.txt", "/exports/report.txt", FTP_BINARY);
var_dump($downloaded);
ftp_close($ftpConnection);
This example demonstrates the central operation. The final output depends on the supplied input and, where relevant, the runtime or connected service.
Example 2: Handling a Different Case
<?php
// Optional parameters and failures matter; check return values before continuing.
$ftpConnection = ftp_connect("ftp.example.test");
if ($ftpConnection === false) { throw new RuntimeException("FTP unavailable"); }
// After ftp_login(), download an approved remote filename.
$downloaded = ftp_get($ftpConnection, __DIR__ . "/download.txt", "/exports/report.txt", FTP_BINARY);
var_dump($downloaded);
ftp_close($ftpConnection);
The second example focuses on a different input or failure condition, so the behavior can be distinguished from the basic case.
Practical Example
<?php
// In an application, place the call inside a checked workflow.
$ftpConnection = ftp_connect("ftp.example.test");
if ($ftpConnection === false) { throw new RuntimeException("FTP unavailable"); }
// After ftp_login(), download an approved remote filename.
$downloaded = ftp_get($ftpConnection, __DIR__ . "/download.txt", "/exports/report.txt", FTP_BINARY);
var_dump($downloaded);
ftp_close($ftpConnection);
The practical example demonstrates how the same subject fits into a larger application. Use your own file paths, endpoints and validated inputs rather than copying sample settings directly.
Important Behavior and Edge Cases
- Downloads a remote file into a local filesystem path using an authenticated FTP connection.
- Check the return value and exceptions for failure before using the result. If an extension or external system is required, the example only works when that dependency is available. Network outcomes are not deterministic and responses should not be assumed to be successful.
- Use the documented return type and handle false, null and exceptions according to the specific call.
Comparison With Related Functions
| Approach | Difference |
|---|---|
| ftp_get | Downloads a remote file into a local filesystem path using an authenticated FTP connection. |
| ftp_get | Downloads a complete remote file using a connected FTP session. |
Common Beginner Mistakes
| Mistake | Correct Approach |
|---|---|
| Assuming FTP is encrypted | Use an appropriate protected transport; plain FTP sends credentials without modern channel protection. |
| Downloading before successful authentication | Check the connection and login result before transfer. |
| Ignoring partial or failed downloads | Check the transfer status and validate the completed file. |
Key Takeaways
- Downloads a remote file into a local filesystem path using an authenticated FTP connection.
- Check the return value and exceptions for failure before using the result. If an extension or external system is required, the example only works when that dependency is available. Network outcomes are not deterministic and responses should not be assumed to be successful.
- Use the documented return type and handle false, null and exceptions according to the specific call.
Downloads a remote file into a local filesystem path using an authenticated FTP connection. Use this approach when its capabilities and constraints match the application. Handle invalid data, failure conditions and resource cleanup explicitly.