PHP socket_strerror() Function: Usage and Examples

socket_strerror() converts a numeric sockets error code to the platform's descriptive error text.

What It Does

socket_strerror() converts a numeric sockets error code to the platform's descriptive error text. The following examples distinguish a normal use case, a boundary case and a practical application.

Requirements and Compatibility

The sockets extension; network code must handle partial I/O, blocking and platform error codes.

Syntax, Parameters and Return Value

socket_strerror(int $error_code): string

Pass an error number obtained through socket_last_error(), not a string error message.

Example 1: Basic Behavior

Convert a known connection-refused error code to readable text.

<?php
echo socket_strerror(SOCKET_ECONNREFUSED);

Example 2: Another Case

Read per-socket error state before converting the error code.

<?php
$s = socket_create(AF_INET, SOCK_STREAM, SOL_TCP);
$number = socket_last_error($s);
if ($number !== 0) error_log(socket_strerror($number));
socket_close($s);

Practical Example: Putting It to Use

Use the error description internally instead of exposing it in HTTP output.

<?php
$number = SOCKET_EACCES;
$message = socket_strerror($number);
echo is_string($message) ? 'Readable error available' : 'Unknown error';

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

Retrieve an error code from socket_last_error() before it is reset or overwritten.

Comparison with Related Functions or Approaches

Common Beginner Mistakes

Key Takeaways

• socket_strerror() converts a numeric sockets error code to the platform's descriptive error text.
• Retrieve an error code from socket_last_error() before it is reset or overwritten.
• Use socket_clear_error() to reset the socket's recorded error state after handling it.

Before adapting these examples, verify the return values, test the failure paths and confirm that your application meets its security and environment requirements.