Parses a private key from PEM content or a supported key input, using the appropriate passphrase if encrypted.
Before using it, identify which data, connection or runtime state the operation reads or changes. This avoids examples that appear to work but apply to a different context.
What Is openssl_pkey_get_private() in PHP?
Parses a private key from PEM content or a supported key input, using the appropriate passphrase if encrypted.
Syntax:
<?php
// Signature for reference only
openssl_pkey_get_private($private_key, [optional] ?string $passphrase) : OpenSSLAsymmetricKey|false
Parameters and Return Value
$private_key— Required value argument supplied to this operation.$passphrase— Optional ?string argument supplied to this operation.
The declared return type is OpenSSLAsymmetricKey|false.
Example 1: Basic Usage
<?php
$privateKey = openssl_pkey_new(["private_key_bits"=>2048]);
openssl_pkey_export($privateKey, $privateKeyPem, "demo-passphrase");
$loadedPrivateKey = openssl_pkey_get_private($privateKeyPem, "demo-passphrase");
var_dump($loadedPrivateKey instanceof OpenSSLAsymmetricKey);Parses a private key from PEM content or a supported key input, using the appropriate passphrase if encrypted.
Example 2: Another Case
<?php
$privateKey = openssl_pkey_new(["private_key_bits"=>2048]);
openssl_pkey_export($privateKey, $privateKeyPem, "test-passphrase");
var_dump(openssl_pkey_get_private($privateKeyPem, "incorrect") === false);The second sample illustrates a different way to inspect or handle this operation. Configure the underlying session, socket, key material or connection first.
Practical Example
<?php
$privateKey = openssl_pkey_new(["private_key_bits"=>2048]);
openssl_pkey_export($privateKey, $privateKeyPem, "secret-passphrase");
$loadedKey = openssl_pkey_get_private($privateKeyPem, "secret-passphrase");
if ($loadedKey === false) { throw new RuntimeException("Could not load private key"); }The practical example is a teaching scenario. Change sample configuration and credentials before using a similar design in an application.
Important Behavior and Edge Cases
- Use trusted certificate and key material; never print private keys or disclose secrets in logs.
- Relevant PHP environment: openssl. Ensure the required extension and operating-system capabilities are present.
- Check results and release resources where necessary; successful syntax alone does not guarantee a successful operation.
Comparison With Related Functions
| Option | When to Use It |
|---|---|
openssl_pkey_get_private | Parses a private key from PEM content or a supported key input, using the appropriate passphrase if encrypted. |
openssl_pkey_get_details | Use this related operation for its different responsibilities; do not assume identical inputs or return values. |
Common Beginner Mistakes
| Mistake | Correct Approach |
|---|---|
| Confusing public and private keys | Use the appropriate key type for each operation and never disclose secret key data. |
| Assuming every algorithm is safe for every purpose | Choose modern algorithms and protocol combinations supported by your deployment. |
| Printing certificate and key material to visitors | Keep cryptographic diagnostics restricted and redact secrets. |
Key Takeaways
- Parses a private key from PEM content or a supported key input, using the appropriate passphrase if encrypted.
- Use trusted certificate and key material; never print private keys or disclose secrets in logs.
- Validate inputs and handle failure conditions before integrating this operation into a production workflow.
Parses a private key from PEM content or a supported key input, using the appropriate passphrase if encrypted. Use the appropriate runtime and treat any environment-dependent output as an example, not a guaranteed result.