PHP set_time_limit: Control Script Execution Time

In PHP, the set_time_limit() function is used to set the maximum time limit for script execution (in seconds). By default, PHP scripts have no time limit, but in some cases, it may be necessary to limit the execution time to avoid resource exhaustion or performance issues due to excessively long running scripts.

If the script execution time exceeds the limit set by the set_time_limit() function in PHP, the script will automatically be terminated by PHP and a runtime error (Fatal Error) will be thrown.

By using the set_time_limit() function, you can protect the server from performance issues caused by lengthy runs due to malicious scripts or unexpected situations. It also helps developers control the script’s execution time to ensure it completes within a reasonable timeframe.