How to extend PHP with C++?

Question

Can I write a C++ code that can be compiled and used for extending PHP (I don't mean calling an executable file)? Can I describe some classes, functions and use them for in my PHP code by calling the compiled (.so or .a file) C++ code? If yes, then please explain me schematically how it is being done.

Answer 1

The Zend engine is a good option as already mentioned in the previous answer.

Other alternative is SWIG (it supports multiple languages)

Specifically, for php with C++, you can refer to:

http://www.swig.org/Doc1.3/Php.html

Answer 2

Yes, you can do so by writing a PHP extension.
See PHP at the Core: A Hacker's Guide to the Zend Engine.