How to Execute a PHP Script from the Command Line | PHP CLI Guide

Executing a PHP script from the command line is a simple and efficient process using the PHP CLI (Command-Line Interface). This method allows you to run PHP scripts directly without needing a web server, making it ideal for tasks such as automation, cron jobs, or debugging.

✅ Steps to Execute a PHP Script from the Command Line:

1. Open the Command Line:

   • On Windows, open Command Prompt (cmd) or PowerShell.

   • On Linux or macOS, open the Terminal.

2. Navigate to the Script Location:
   Use the cd command to navigate to the folder where your PHP script is stored.
   Example:

   cd /path/to/your/script/

3. Run the PHP Script:
   Execute the script by typing the php command followed by the script's filename.
   Example:

   php script_name.php

4. View the Output:
   Any output generated by the script (such as echo statements) will be displayed directly in the command line.

🧠 Example:

php myscript.php

This will execute the PHP script myscript.php located in the current directory.