The following code: $new_file = ADS_DIR_INTERNAL.'/'.$ad_info['id'].'_'.$ad_info['filename']; echo "NEW_FILE:[".$new_file."]\n"; echo "file_exists Using VAR:[".file_exists($new_file)."]\n"; echo "file_exists Using Hard Coded:[".file_exists('/home/fx/pads/ads_dir/1_rubik1920x1080lu0.jpg')."]\n"; Gives this output: NEW_FILE:[/home/fx/pads/ads_dir/1_rubik1920x1080lu0.jpg] file_exists Using VAR:[] file_exists Using Hard Coded:[1] Why does it not work when using the variable in file_exists? I thought I may need some safe_mode magic, safe_mode_include_dir, or disable_functions, but I don't see any restrictions AND why does it work when it is hard coded? Warning This function returns FALSE for files inaccessible due to safe mode restrictions. However these files still can be included if they are located in safe_mode_include_dir. Current logic needs the following functions: file_exists md5_file move_uploaded_file Thanks. -- PHP General Mailing List (http://www.php.net/) To unsubscribe, visit: http://www.php.net/unsub.php