why ./ is used to run C++ compiled programs

legend1079 · 03-22-2004, 08:33 AM

hay everyone
i've asked the command to
run the c++ compiled program
i have told
$./<filename>
whats ./
and why used

michaelk · 03-22-2004, 08:39 AM

./ stands for current working directory. Unlike windows when you type in a command the shell only searches the path, it does not search the current directory.

To see your path:
echo $PATH

legend1079 · 03-22-2004, 08:45 AM

means taht if in windows
if i am in in some directory as
c:\tc\bin\>_
there if i write any command then return
that command execute if the command belongs to that directory
so in rh we need ./ key to tell consol to check the current dir
is it soo???

michaelk · 03-23-2004, 05:24 AM

./ is a shortcut for current directory.

fsbooks · 03-23-2004, 06:32 AM

Yes, it means current directory. the reason being: the current directory is often not in the $PATH, both for consistency (it keeps the same executables in the $PATH, nomatter what the current working directory $PWD), and for security (particularly where root is concerned).