PHP fclose() Function
Quick summary: The PHP fclose() function closes an open file handle.
PHP fclose() Syntax
fclose(resource $stream): boolPHP
PHP fclose() Basic examples
$h = fopen('test.txt','r');
var_dump(fclose($h));PHP
Output:
bool(true)Closes an open file handle.
PHP fclose() Real-world usage
$h = fopen('log.txt','a');
fwrite($h, 'Done');
fclose($h);PHP
Output:
bool(true)Ensures data is flushed and resources are freed.
PHP fclose() Edge cases
var_dump(fclose(null));PHP
Output:
Warning: fclose(): supplied resource is not a valid stream resourcefclose requires a valid resource.
PHP fclose() Common mistakes
Closing invalid resources
fclose expects a valid stream.
Incorrect
fclose(null);Correct
if (is_resource($h)) fclose($h);Validate the handle before closing.
PHP fclose() Frequently Asked Questions
What does fclose() do?
Closes an open file pointer.
Return type?
Boolean.
Is it required?
Yes, to free resources.
Use case?
Closing files.
Does it modify file?
No.
Performance impact?
Important for resource cleanup.
Common mistake?
Forgetting to close files.
Can fail?
Yes.
Handles streams?
Yes.
Auto close?
At script end.
Safe?
Yes.
Alternative?
Automatic cleanup.