How to Use a Specific php.ini File with Cron Jobs

Learn how to set php.ini for Cron Jobs through this guide. If you need a different explanation of Cron Jobs, please refer to the articles linked below:

• Cron Job Basics
• Create, Edit, or Delete a Cron Job
• Cron Job Scheduling
• Cron Jobs with PHP and Other File Types
   

Cron Job Specific php.in

When running scripts with a Cron Job, it may be necessary to use a specific php.ini file. This can also be done when executing a PHP script from the Command Line Interface. Using a custom file can help customize the script execution and achieve the desired result. For instance, you can configure a cron job to load a specific php.ini when your code needs components like Zend Optimizer defined in that file.

php.ini Configuration for Cron Jobs

Use the -c flag in your PHP CLI command to point to an alternate php.ini configuration file.

For example:

 php -c /home/username/public_html/php.ini /home/username/public_html/myscript.php

The first path (/home/username/public_html/php.ini) specifies the php.ini file, while the second (/home/username/public_html/myscript.php) is the PHP script to run. Replace username with your actual account name and adjust paths accordingly. Keep in mind your home directory may differ (home1, home2, home3, etc.).