Q: What are "dot files?"

A: "Dot files" are files in your homespace that are hidden. If you type "ll" you will be shown a long listing of all the files in your homespace, including those that are hidden. Dot filenames and directory names are preceeded by a period, such as:

Many of the dot files contain important settings for your UNIX account. If you are not familiar with what the function of the file is, DO NOT make changes to it or delete it.