I don't think that there's a technical reason why you shouldn't use dots in the
file name.

Personally, I try to only use dots to separate the name from the extension.
(I'll use underscores instead of dots.)

memo_from_enf_dir_to_caf_dir_about_mvd_div.doc

(I don't like spaces in my filenames, either--again personal preference.)

But one thing I'd suggest is to have windows display the extension for every
file type.

In winXP:
start windows explorer
tools|folder options|view tab
Uncheck the "Hide extensions for known file types"

That way, if they see a file named:
importantpictures.jpg

they'll know right away if the file is really named:
importantpictures.jpg.exe

Which could be malicious.

jow wrote:

I am trying to explain to a user why names of word documents should not
contain periods; for example they want to name a document:

memo from enf dir. to caf dir. about mvd div.

I understand why - but I can't find something in print to help me explain why.

Thanks.

--

Dave Peterson