PHP get_resources() Function: Usage and Examples

Use get_resources() when you need to lists currently live resources, optionally filtered by resource type in a PHP application. The examples below show the actual operation and its limitations.

What Is get_resources() in PHP?

Lists currently live resources, optionally filtered by resource type. The exact signature supported by your installation depends on its PHP version and enabled extensions.

Its syntax is:

get_resources(?string $type = ...): array

Parameters and return value: The parameter types, optional arguments, references, and return type are shown in the signature above. Optional parameters are marked with an ellipsis in this reference signature.

Example 1: Basic Usage

<?php

$resources = get_resources(); echo is_array($resources) ? "List returned" : "Unavailable";

Result: Run the example in an environment that supports the function. Any values depending on operating-system state, installed extensions, process configuration, or network access must be checked on the target server.

Example 2: Different Input or Behavior

<?php

$stream = fopen("php://temp","w+"); echo count(get_resources("stream")) > 0 ? "Stream active" : "None"; fclose($stream);

Result: Run the example in an environment that supports the function. Any values depending on operating-system state, installed extensions, process configuration, or network access must be checked on the target server.

Practical Example: Applying the Function

<?php

$stream = tmpfile(); $activeStreams = get_resources("stream"); echo "Stream count: " . count($activeStreams); fclose($stream);

Result: Run the example in an environment that supports the function. Any values depending on operating-system state, installed extensions, process configuration, or network access must be checked on the target server.

Important Behavior and Edge Cases

Resource counts change as the program runs; the list is for diagnostics, not business IDs.

Comparison With Related Functions

Common Beginner Mistakes

Key Takeaways

• Lists currently live resources, optionally filtered by resource type.
• Resource counts change as the program runs; the list is for diagnostics, not business IDs.
• get_resource_type() inspects one resource; get_resources() lists live resources.

Use get_resources() for the specific operation demonstrated above. Check its prerequisites and handle failure conditions before using it with production data.