What does the . do

[Dingus]

Hi folks.
This isn’t a problem as such but looking for a bit of info.
On another help site I saw, and the author advocated, a full stop being used before a directory entry.
For example
/.example/test
and not
/example/test
Does anyone know the significance of the full stop?

 

[colinsp]

You have your syntax wrong it should be ./example/test

The dot-slash, ./ , is a relative path to something in the current directory. The dot is the current directory and the slash is a path delimiter.

 

[Dingus]

Thanks Colin but it's definately as posted
Example from moderator
D:\wamp64\www\Photos\.well-known\acme-challenge
This is from certbot installation
I just don't have a clue why a 'dot'

 

[managed]

Have a look at the D Drive in File Explorer to see if there is a dot in that path.

 

[Dingus]

No Allan. No dot showing for that drive.
Seems like the experts are stumped too.

 

[managed]

Does the path exist just missing the dot ? If it does I think the 'mod' made a typo.

 

[colinsp]

The . in front of a directory hides that directory from the listing by default. This is usually used for things like SSL certificates. Now you included the actual path of what you were told it makes sense. If you are having problems creating .well-known in Windows see https://www.tbs-certificates.co.uk/FAQ/en/windows-creer-repertoire-point.html

 

[Dingus]

Think you’ve hit it on the nail Colin.
The forum I’m dealing with is one that generates SSL (CA) certificates.
The Mod emphasised it should be used.
I couldn’t figure out why. Never seen it before.
Thanks again.

 

[managed]

Nice find @colinsp

 

[vctech]

In Linux, (Unix), which includes Mac OS, a dot at the beginning of a file name creates a hidden file or directory which is normally hidden from the user's view. Used for system files etc.

 

[managed]

I knew that Linux and Mac OS use dots at the start of filenames to 'hide' the files but I never knew Windows also does it, we live and learn.

 

[NaderHussain]

In the following link, you will find more information on files beginning with a, '.'.
https://www.howtogeek.com/232348/wh...and-folder-names-have-a-dot-in-front-of-them/