Using PHP rename() to Rename Files and Directories

Introduction: In PHP, the rename() function is used to rename files or directories, providing a simple way to change their names by specifying the source and target.

Syntax: bool rename ( string $source , string $target ) Parameters: $source (required) – the name of the source file or directory; $target (required) – the desired new name.

Return value: Returns TRUE on success, FALSE on failure.

Examples:

Rename a file:

<?php
$old_name = "old_file.txt";
$new_name = "new_file.txt";

if (rename($old_name, $new_name)) {
    echo "File renamed successfully!";
} else {
    echo "File rename failed!";
}
?>

Rename a directory:

<?php
$old_name = "old_directory";
$new_name = "new_directory";

if (rename($old_name, $new_name)) {
    echo "Directory renamed successfully!";
} else {
    echo "Directory rename failed!";
}
?>

Note: The rename() function may be limited by filesystem permissions; ensure you have sufficient rights and that the source exists, otherwise the function returns FALSE.

Summary: The rename() function is a powerful PHP tool for renaming files and directories, allowing developers to change names by specifying source and target paths, as demonstrated in the example code.