Installing and configuring PEAR packages

The PHP Extension and Application Repository (PEAR) provides reusable PHP libraries that simplify development. On ruachost.com, you can install and configure PEAR packages to extend your applications with features like database interaction, e‑mail handling, and XML processing.

What is PEAR?

• A framework and distribution system for reusable PHP components.
• Includes libraries for databases, caching, authentication, and more.
• Helps developers avoid reinventing common functionality.

Step 1: Check Pre‑Installed Packages

Many PEAR packages are already available system‑wide on shared hosting servers.

• Log in via SSH and run:

  pear list

• This displays all packages currently installed for your account.

Step 2: Install a PEAR Package

Method 1: Using cPanel

1. Log in to cPanel.
2. Go to Software → PHP PEAR Packages.
3. Search for the package you want (e.g., Mail).
4. Click Install Now.

Method 2: Request Support

• If you cannot install via cPanel, open a Support ticket

• The Ruachost Support team can install the package for you.

Note: The pear install command requires superuser access and is not available on shared hosting accounts.

Step 3: Configure the PHP Include Path

After installing a PEAR package, configure PHP to locate it.

1. Create or edit a custom php.ini file in your application directory.

2. Add the include path:

   include_path = ".:/usr/lib/php:/usr/local/lib/php:/home/USERNAME/php"

   Replace USERNAME with your account name.

3. Save the file.

This ensures your scripts can load PEAR packages correctly.

Step 4: Use the Package in Your Code

Example using the Mail package:

<?php
require_once "Mail.php";

$headers = array(
  'From' => 'sender@example.com',
  'To' => 'recipient@example.com',
  'Subject' => 'Test message'
);

$mail_object = Mail::factory('mail');
$mail_object->send('recipient@example.com', $headers, 'Hello from PEAR Mail!');
?>

Best Practices

• Always check if a package is already installed before requesting support.
• Use Composer for modern PHP projects when possible, but PEAR remains useful for legacy applications.
• Keep your include path updated if you move scripts to new directories.
• Test installations with simple scripts before deploying to production.