What is true regarding the file ~/.forward?

Question

Options

• AWhen configured correctly ~/.forward can be used to forward each incoming mail to one or
• BAfter editing ~/.forward the user must run newaliases to make the mail server aware of the
• CUsing ~/.forward, root may configure any email address whereas all other users may configure
• DAs ~/.forward is owned by the MTA and not writable by the user, it must be edited using the
• EBy default, only ~/.forward files of users in the group mailq are processed while all other

• A
  74% (34)
• B
  2% (1)
• C
  9% (4)
• D
  2% (1)
• E
  13% (6)

Explanation

Option A is correct because ~/.forward is a plain text file, owned and writable by the user, that the MTA reads automatically on each mail delivery to redirect messages to one or more addresses (e.g., listing [email protected] and \username to forward and keep a local copy).

Why the distractors are wrong:

• B is wrong because newaliases applies only to the system-wide /etc/aliases database (a binary file requiring rebuilding). ~/.forward is a plain text file read directly by the MTA on each delivery - no command needed after editing.
• C is wrong because ~/.forward applies only to the owner's incoming mail. Root gets no special cross-user forwarding power through this file; each user's ~/.forward governs only their own mailbox.
• D is wrong because ~/.forward lives in the user's home directory and is owned and writable by the user - that's the whole point. No privileged command or MTA ownership is involved.
• E is wrong because no group restriction applies. The MTA processes ~/.forward for all users regardless of group membership.

Memory tip: Think of ~/.forward as a sticky note you leave for the mail carrier - you write it, you own it, it works immediately, and it only covers your mailbox. The newaliases command is for the sysadmin's master address book (/etc/aliases), not your personal note.

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