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PHP proc_get_status() Function: Usage and Examples

This operation retrieves information about a child process started through proc_open().

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

This operation retrieves information about a child process started through proc_open().

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 proc_get_status() in PHP?


This operation retrieves information about a child process started through proc_open().

Syntax:

<?php

// Signature for reference only
proc_get_status($process) : array

Parameters and Return Value


  • $process — Required value argument supplied to this operation.

The declared return type is array.

Example 1: Basic Usage


<?php

$commandProcess = proc_open([PHP_BINARY, "-r", "usleep(100000);"], [0=>["pipe","r"],1=>["pipe","w"],2=>["pipe","w"]], $pipes);
if (!is_resource($commandProcess)) { throw new RuntimeException("Cannot start process"); }
print_r(proc_get_status($commandProcess));
foreach ($pipes as $pipe) { fclose($pipe); }
proc_close($commandProcess);

This operation retrieves information about a child process started through proc_open().

Example 2: Another Case


<?php

$childProcess = proc_open([PHP_BINARY, "-v"], [1=>["pipe","w"],2=>["pipe","w"]], $pipes);
if (!is_resource($childProcess)) { throw new RuntimeException("Start failed"); }
var_dump(proc_get_status($childProcess)["running"]);
foreach ($pipes as $pipe) { fclose($pipe); }
proc_close($childProcess);

The second example changes the input or surrounding conditions, which matters when choosing this API for real application code.

Practical Example


<?php

$runningProcess = proc_open([PHP_BINARY, "-r", "echo 123;"], [1=>["pipe","w"]], $pipes);
if (!is_resource($runningProcess)) { throw new RuntimeException("Process unavailable"); }
$processState = proc_get_status($runningProcess);
echo "PID: " . $processState["pid"];
foreach ($pipes as $pipe) { fclose($pipe); }
proc_close($runningProcess);

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 a trusted command array, capture pipes safely and close resources; exit codes may be reported after collection.
  • Relevant PHP environment: standard. 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


OptionWhen to Use It
proc_get_statusThis operation retrieves information about a child process started through proc_open().
proc_openUse this related operation for its different responsibilities; do not assume identical inputs or return values.

Common Beginner Mistakes


MistakeCorrect Approach
Assuming a successful return valueInspect the returned value and handle failures according to this operation’s contract.
Using the API without its required environmentSupply the required resources, runtime configuration and permissions before calling it.
Copying demonstration values into productionUse application-specific validated values, secure configuration and safe error handling.

Key Takeaways


  • This operation retrieves information about a child process started through proc_open().
  • Use a trusted command array, capture pipes safely and close resources; exit codes may be reported after collection.
  • Validate inputs and handle failure conditions before integrating this operation into a production workflow.

This operation retrieves information about a child process started through proc_open(). Use the appropriate runtime and treat any environment-dependent output as an example, not a guaranteed result.

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