Error_reporting is an essential function in PHP that enables developers to control the levels of errors reported during the runtime of an application. This function is crucial for efficient debugging and ensuring the proper functionality of web applications.

Basic Use of error_reporting

How to Set error_reporting

Error_reporting is set using the error_reporting() function in PHP. This function accepts one of the constants that define which types of errors should be reported. The most common constants are:

• E_ALL: Reports all errors and warnings.
• E_ERROR: Reports only critical errors that stop the script execution.
• E_WARNING: Reports warnings that do not stop the script but indicate possible problems.
• E_NOTICE: Reports minor issues that do not affect the functionality of the script.
• E_DEPRECATED: Reports deprecated functions and constructions in the code.

To set error_reporting, you can use a command like this:

error_reporting(E_ALL);

This command turns on the reporting of all errors.

Using error_reporting in Different Development Phases

During the development of an application, it is usually desirable to see all errors, so error_reporting(E_ALL); is often used. However, on a production server, a less invasive setting, such as error_reporting(E_ERROR | E_WARNING);, may be preferable so that users do not see minor warnings and notices.

Advanced Techniques and Tips for Working with error_reporting

Customizing the Behavior of error_reporting

You can also combine different levels of error reporting using bitwise operators, which allows for finer adjustment. For example:

error_reporting(E_ERROR | E_WARNING | E_NOTICE);

This setting includes critical errors, warnings, and notices but excludes reporting of deprecated elements and strict errors.

Error Logging

In addition to displaying errors on the screen, it is possible to log errors to log files. This is set using the log_errors and error_log configurations in php.ini or dynamically in the code. This way, you can monitor errors without disturbing the users of the application.

 

Error_reporting is a tool that should be part of every PHP developer's arsenal. By properly setting and using this function, you can significantly improve the quality and stability of your applications. It is important to choose the appropriate level of reporting for each phase of development and operation of the application.