How to Use PHPacker Step-by-Step

Are you looking to bundle your PHP applications into standalone executables? Look no further than PHPacker, a powerful tool that simplifies the process of packaging PHP scripts or PHAR files into cross-platform, self-contained applications. In this SEO-optimized guide, we’ll walk you through how to use PHPacker from scratch, ensuring your PHP projects are portable and easy to distribute, no PHP installation required on the end user’s system! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced developer, this step-by-step tutorial will help you master PHPacker quickly.

What is PHPacker?

PHPacker is a modern tool designed to package PHP applications into standalone executables. By bundling your PHP scripts with a PHP runtime, PHPacker eliminates the need for users to have PHP installed locally. It’s perfect for creating CLI tools, distributing scripts, or deploying applications across different platforms like Linux, macOS, and Windows. In this blog post, we’ll focus on using PHPacker to create a simple executable.

Prerequisites for Using PHPacker

Before diving into this PHPacker, ensure you have the following:

– PHP installed (version 8.0 or higher recommended).
– Composer installed globally (download it from getcomposer.org.
– A terminal or command-line interface. (e.g., Bash, PowerShell, or Command Prompt)
– A basic understanding of PHP and CLI usage.

With these in place, you’re ready to harness the power of PHPacker!

Step 1: Install PHPacker Globally

To get started with PHPacker, install it using Composer. Installing it globally makes it accessible from any project directory.

1. Open your terminal.
2. Run this command to install:

composer global require phpacker/phpacker

3. Add Composer’s global bin directory to your system’s PATH:
– Linux/macOS: Edit your ~/.bashrc or ~/.zshrc file:

export PATH="$HOME/.composer/vendor/bin:$PATH"

Then run source ~/.bashrc to apply changes.
– Windows: Add %USERPROFILE%\AppData\Roaming\Composer\vendor\bin to your PATH via System Environment Variables.
4. Verify the installation:

phpacker --version

You’ll see the PHPacker version (e.g., `PHPacker x.y.z`). If it doesn’t work, double-check your PATH.

Step 2: Create a Simple PHP Script

Let’s create a basic PHP script to test PHPacker. This will be a CLI “Hello, World!” application.

1. Create a project directory:

mkdir my-php-app
cd my-php-app

2. Create a file named index.php:

<?php
echo "Hello, World!\n";

3. Test it:

php index.php

You should see “Hello, World!” in your terminal.

This simple script is the foundation for packaging with PHPacker, making it an ideal starting point for beginners.

Step 3: Configure PHPacker

PHPacker supports a configuration file (phpacker.json) to define build settings. While optional, it’s a best practice for organizing your project.

1. Create phpacker.json

2. Add this configuration:

{
"input": "index.php",
"output": "build/myapp",
"php-version": "8.1"
}

– input: Your script’s entry point.
– output: Where the executable will be saved.
– php-version: The PHP version to bundle (e.g., 8.1)
3. Create the build directory.

Step 4: Build Your PHPacker Executable

Now, let’s use PHPacker to create a standalone executable.

1. Run the build command:

phpacker build

Alternatively, without a config file:

phpacker build --input=index.php --output=build/myapp --php-version=8.1

2. PHPacker will:
– Download the specified PHP version.
– Bundle it with your script.
– Output the executable to build/myapp.

Step 5: Test Your PHPacker Executable

Verify your PHPacker built application works:

1. Run the executable:
– Linux/macOS:

./build/myapp

– **Windows**:

build\myapp.exe

2. You’ll see “Hello, World!” proof your PHPacker setup is successful!

Step 6: Distribute Your PHPacker Application

The resulting executable is portable and runs without PHP installed on the target system. Simply share build/myapp with others or deploy it across compatible platforms.

Advanced Features

For more complex projects, explore these PHPacker options:
– Multiple files: Add "input": ["index.php", "src/"] to phpacker.json.
– Composer dependencies: Run composer require symfony/console and rebuild.
– Custom PHP settings: Use "php-ini": "custom.ini" in the config.

Check the official PHPacker docs at phpacker.dev documentation for more.

Troubleshooting

– Command not found: Ensure PHPacker is in your PATH.
– Permission denied: Run chmod +x build/myapp (Linux/macOS).
– PHP version issues: Use phpacker list-php-versions to check compatibility.

Why Choose PHPacker?

PHPacker stands out for its simplicity and power, making it a top choice for PHP developers. By following this tutorial, you’ve learned how to install, configure, and build with PHPacker, all from scratch. Whether you’re creating CLI tools or distributing apps, PHPacker has you covered.

Ready to package your next PHP project? Start using PHPacker today and streamline your workflow!