There are a number of files that are processed automatically when certain events happen. These are the startup, or initialization files. They all begin with a period, making them hidden, and therefore not visible unless you add the '-a' switch to ls. The common files on this system include:

• .login

This is the initialization file that is read each time you login. Usually, most of these commands should go into the .tcshrc.
• .logout

If you need a certain set of commands executed when you logout, this is the place to put them.
• .tcshrc

This file is processed each time you start a new shell or open a new shell window. It commonly contains commands to set enviroment variables like the path, manpath, printer, and display.
• .bash_profile, and .bashrc

These files are also processed each time you login, but only if you are using the bash shell. The profile file is the globle resource file that sets up the inital environment. The bashrc file is processed every time you start a sub-shell. The advantage is that xterms need only read the .bashrc file, keeping the overall environment managable.
• .xsession

Whenever you log into a machine in the ICL, this file is read to determine what programs you want to load automatically. Each command is executed sequentially; the last command should be the window manager that you wish to use (mwm, fvwm, olwm, ctwm).
• .Xdefaults

This file sets parameters for many X programs, such as xterm, xclock, xbiff, etc.
• .mwmrc

The Motif window manager (mwm) reads this file to determine how you want to customize its appearance. Commonly, one uses this file to personalize menus, colors, and icons.

>mv .tcshrc .tcshrc.bak

 To edit a startup files, use any common text editor.

 Each of these files has a default copy somewhere in the system. If you have your own file, this default file may be skipped, or it might be processed in addition to your personal file.