# fileSystemRepresentation(withPath:) Returns a C-string representation of a given path that properly encodes Unicode strings for use by the file system. ``` func fileSystemRepresentation(withPath path: String) -> UnsafePointer ``` ## Parameters `path` A string object containing a path to a file. This parameter must not be `nil` or contain the empty string. ## Return Value A C-string representation of `path` that properly encodes Unicode strings for use by the file system. ## Discussion Use this method if your code calls system routines that expect C-string path arguments. If you use the C string beyond the scope of the current autorelease pool, you must copy it. This method raises an exception if `path` is `nil` or contains the empty string. This method also throws an exception if the conversion of the string fails. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)