Understanding and Implementing a PHP Interpreter in C

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In this course we will first explore the background and characteristics of the PHP language, as well as the purpose and working principles of the PHP interpreter. Then we will dissect the interpreter’s core components—lexical analysis, syntax analysis, virtual machine, etc.—and delve into their internal implementation mechanisms.

Furthermore, the course will demonstrate how to implement each module of the PHP interpreter using the C language, including the lexer, parser, and virtual machine. Students will complete a practical project to build a simple PHP interpreter themselves, deepening their understanding of the interpreter’s source code.

By the end of the course, participants will have a thorough grasp of how the PHP interpreter works internally, acquire the techniques for writing interpreter components in C, and develop problem‑solving and programming skills through project‑based practice.

Whether you are a beginner interested in PHP or a developer seeking an in‑depth view of the interpreter’s inner workings, this course provides the necessary knowledge and hands‑on experience.

Chapter 1

Section 1: Introduction to source‑code reading tools and downloading php‑src

Section 2: Ways PHP programs are executed

Section 3: Locating the main entry function of php‑cli and using GDB debugger (part 1)

Section 4: Locating the main entry function of php‑cli and using GDB debugger (part 2)

Section 5: Locating the main entry function of php‑cli and using GDB debugger (part 3)

Section 6: Locating the main entry function of php‑cli and using GDB debugger (part 4)

Section 7: php‑cli entry function source – cli_sapi_module global variables