In PHP, ldap_get_values() helps with runtime and application data. Reads values of a named attribute for one LDAP search result entry.
What Is ldap_get_values() in PHP?
The function or method has a specific purpose: Reads values of a named attribute for one LDAP search result entry. The following examples show the main call, one additional situation, and an application-style use.
Syntax:
<?php
ldap_get_values(...)
Parameters and Return Value
Availability: This API requires its PHP extension or supported runtime version. The syntax in the examples uses the documented PHP API; check the extension installed in your deployment.
Example 1: Basic Usage
Reads values of a named attribute for one LDAP search result entry.
<?php
$ldapConnection = ldap_connect("ldap://directory.internal");
$searchResult = ldap_search($ldapConnection, "dc=example,dc=internal", "(uid=alex)");
$firstEntry = ldap_first_entry($ldapConnection, $searchResult);
if ($firstEntry !== false) { print_r(ldap_get_values($ldapConnection, $firstEntry, "cn")); }
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.
$ldapConnection = ldap_connect("ldap://directory.internal");
$searchResult = ldap_search($ldapConnection, "dc=example,dc=internal", "(uid=alex)");
$firstEntry = ldap_first_entry($ldapConnection, $searchResult);
if ($firstEntry !== false) { print_r(ldap_get_values($ldapConnection, $firstEntry, "cn")); }
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.
$ldapConnection = ldap_connect("ldap://directory.internal");
$searchResult = ldap_search($ldapConnection, "dc=example,dc=internal", "(uid=alex)");
$firstEntry = ldap_first_entry($ldapConnection, $searchResult);
if ($firstEntry !== false) { print_r(ldap_get_values($ldapConnection, $firstEntry, "cn")); }
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
- Reads values of a named attribute for one LDAP search result entry.
- 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.
- Directory searches require an appropriate bind and carefully escaped search filters. Do not embed untrusted input into raw LDAP filters.
Comparison With Related Functions
| Approach | Difference |
|---|---|
| ldap_get_values | Reads values of a named attribute for one LDAP search result entry. |
| ldap_get_entries | Retrieves all entries for a search result, rather than one attribute or DN. |
Common Beginner Mistakes
| Mistake | Correct Approach |
|---|---|
| Using an LDAP result before binding and searching | Establish a connection, authenticate, execute the search, then inspect returned entries. |
| Building raw LDAP filters from user text | Escape values with ldap_escape() and limit searched attributes. |
| Assuming a missing entry is an empty string | Test for false or missing data before reading attributes. |
Key Takeaways
- Reads values of a named attribute for one LDAP search result entry.
- 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.
- Directory searches require an appropriate bind and carefully escaped search filters. Do not embed untrusted input into raw LDAP filters.
Reads values of a named attribute for one LDAP search result entry. Use this approach when its capabilities and constraints match the application. Handle invalid data, failure conditions and resource cleanup explicitly.