Understanding PHP zend_array: Packed Array vs. Hash Array Internal Structure

This article explains how PHP's zend_array is implemented as either a packed array or a hash array, detailing the underlying struct fields, the role of the Bucket container, and how different key patterns affect memory layout and performance.

ArraysBackendPHP

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Understanding PHP zend_array: Packed Array vs. Hash Array Internal Structure

php Courses

Jul 2, 2021 · Backend Development

Understanding PHP 8 Internal Array Structure (zend_array)

This article explains PHP 8’s internal array implementation, describing the zend_array (alias zend_array and HashTable) structure, its key‑value storage, ordering, and the detailed fields such as reference counting, flags, bucket data, and associated functions, providing code excerpts for deeper understanding.

BackendPHParray-internals

0 likes · 6 min read

Understanding PHP 8 Internal Array Structure (zend_array)