The **_FILEEXISTS** function determines if a designated file name exists and returns true (-1) or false (0).

## Syntax

> theFileExists% = [_FILEEXISTS](_FILEEXISTS)(filename$)

## Description

* The filename$ parameter can be a literal or variable [STRING](STRING) value that can include a path.
* The function returns -1 when a file exists and 0 when it does not.
* The function reads the system information directly without using a [SHELL](SHELL) procedure.
* The function will use the appropriate Operating System path separators. [_OS$](_OS$) can determine the operating system.
* **This function does not guarantee that a file can be accessed or opened, just that it exists.**

## Example(s)

Checks if a file exists before opening it.

```vb

IF _FILEEXISTS("mysettings.ini") THEN
    PRINT "Settings file found."
END IF

```

## See Also

* [_DIREXISTS](_DIREXISTS), [_OS$](_OS$)
* [SHELL](SHELL), [FILES](FILES)
* [KILL](KILL)