Conventions

This book uses the following typographical conventions:

italic

is used for filenames, directories, hostnames, domain names, URLs, and to emphasize new terms when they are first introduced.

constant width

is used to show the contents of files, command syntax, and the output from commands.

constant width italic

is used in examples to show variables for which a context-specific substitution should be made. (The variable filename, for example, would be replaced by some actual filename.)

[ option ]

When showing command syntax, we place optional parts of the command within brackets. For example, ls [-l] means that the -l option is not required.

This is an example of a tip or note. They suggest effective ways to accomplish common tasks, highlight important advice, or convey supplemental information that may not be important to all readers.

This is an example of a warning. Warnings highlight dangerous procedures—those that may damage you, your hardware, or your data. Disregard warnings at your own peril.