PHP Enums: Backed Enum Serialization and Persistence

Store a backed enum using its scalar value and reconstruct it with from() or tryFrom() after loading.

The examples below begin with the core behavior, then move to an application-oriented use.

How PHP Enums: Backed Enum Serialization and Persistence Works

Store a backed enum using its scalar value and reconstruct it with from() or tryFrom() after loading.

Example 1: Basic Usage

This example uses a small input to make the main behavior visible.

<?php

enum ApiVersion: string { case V1 = "v1"; case V2 = "v2"; }
$storedValue = ApiVersion::V2->value;
echo ApiVersion::from($storedValue)->name;

Output:

V2

Store a backed enum using its scalar value and reconstruct it with from() or tryFrom() after loading.

Example 2: A Different Input

A different set of values shows the same operation in another situation.

<?php

enum JobState: int { case Queued = 1; case Done = 2; }
$inputValue = 3;
var_dump(JobState::tryFrom($inputValue));

Output:

NULL

Validate incoming database/API values before using from(), which throws on unknown values.

Practical Example: Applying the Feature

This example shows an application-style use of the feature, with its surrounding setup visible.

<?php

enum DeliveryStatus: string { case Pending = "pending"; case Sent = "sent"; }
$storedValue = DeliveryStatus::Sent->value;
$restoredStatus = DeliveryStatus::from($storedValue);
echo $restoredStatus->name;

Output:

Sent

The code is shown for learning. Adjust the class names, inputs and error handling to suit your application.

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

• Validate incoming database/API values before using from(), which throws on unknown values.
• Store a backed enum using its scalar value and reconstruct it with from() or tryFrom() after loading.
• Observe differences in empty inputs, invalid states and optional extension availability where relevant.

Comparison With Related Approaches

Common Beginner Mistakes

Key Takeaways

• Store a backed enum using its scalar value and reconstruct it with from() or tryFrom() after loading.
• Validate incoming database/API values before using from(), which throws on unknown values.
• Use the example that matches the values, runtime version and dependencies in your application.

PHP Enums: Backed Enum Serialization and Persistence is useful when its behavior matches the data structure and lifecycle of your PHP application. Choose it with a clear understanding of its preconditions and returned values.