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PHP sys_getloadavg() Function: Usage and Examples

Returns operating-system load averages for recent 1-, 5- and 15-minute intervals on supported platforms.

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

Returns operating-system load averages for recent 1-, 5- and 15-minute intervals on supported platforms.

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 sys_getloadavg() in PHP?


Returns operating-system load averages for recent 1-, 5- and 15-minute intervals on supported platforms.

Syntax:

<?php

// Signature for reference only
sys_getloadavg() : array|false

Parameters and Return Value


This operation does not accept any arguments.

The declared return type is array|false.

Example 1: Basic Usage


<?php

var_dump(sys_getloadavg());

Returns operating-system load averages for recent 1-, 5- and 15-minute intervals on supported platforms.

Example 2: Another Case


<?php

$loadAverages = sys_getloadavg();
if ($loadAverages !== false) { echo $loadAverages[0]; }

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

Practical Example


<?php

$loadAverages = sys_getloadavg();
if ($loadAverages !== false) { echo "Five-minute load: " . $loadAverages[1]; }

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


  • Load average is not a direct CPU-utilization percentage and has different interpretation across hosts.
  • 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
sys_getloadavgReturns operating-system load averages for recent 1-, 5- and 15-minute intervals on supported platforms.
getrusageUse 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


  • Returns operating-system load averages for recent 1-, 5- and 15-minute intervals on supported platforms.
  • Load average is not a direct CPU-utilization percentage and has different interpretation across hosts.
  • Validate inputs and handle failure conditions before integrating this operation into a production workflow.

Returns operating-system load averages for recent 1-, 5- and 15-minute intervals on supported platforms. Use the appropriate runtime and treat any environment-dependent output as an example, not a guaranteed result.

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