etcskelmap

Etcskelmap is a configuration file typically found on Unix-like operating systems, particularly those derived from System V or using its initialization system. Its primary purpose is to define the skeleton directory and its contents, which are copied to a new user's home directory when that user account is created. This allows for a standardized setup of default configuration files and directories for new users.

The file itself, located at /etc/skelmap, usually contains a list of source files or directories and their corresponding destination paths within the new user's home directory. For instance, it might specify that the .bashrc file from the skeleton directory should be copied to the new user's home directory, or that a default Documents directory should be created. Administrators can modify etcskelmap to customize the initial environment for all newly created users, ensuring consistency in their basic setup. This can include pre-configured shell settings, application configuration files, or common directories. The exact format and functionality can vary slightly depending on the specific operating system distribution and its version.