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15.3.5.5 Whitespace in File Names

Both Unix and Windows file systems permit whitespace in file names. However, Unix users rarely take advantage of this, while Windows users often do. For example, many Windows systems use a directory named `Program Files', whose name has an embedded space. This is a clash of conventions.

Many programs developed on Unix unintentionally assume that there will be no spaces in file and directory names, and behave mysteriously if any are encountered. On Unix these bugs will almost never be seen. On Windows, they will pop up immediately.

When writing a program which must run on Windows, consider these issues. Don't forget to test it on directories and files with embedded spaces.


This document was generated by Gary V. Vaughan on February, 8 2006 using texi2html