totn C Functions

C Language: system function
(Perform Operating System Command)

In the C Programming Language, the system function allows a C program to run another program by passing a command line (pointed to by string) to the operating system's command processor that will then be executed.

Syntax

The syntax for the system function in the C Language is:

int system(const char *string);

Parameters or Arguments

string
A command line that will be executed by the operating system's command processor.

Returns

The system function returns a nonzero value if a command processor is available and string is a null pointer. The system function returns an implementation-defined value if string isn't a null pointer.

Required Header

In the C Language, the required header for the system function is:

#include <stdlib.h>

Applies To

In the C Language, the system function can be used in the following versions:

  • ANSI/ISO 9899-1990

Similar Functions

Other C functions that are similar to the system function: