---
name: "motd"
section: "5"
platform: "macos"
package: "files"
version: "974.120.2"
release: "macOS 26.5"
platforms: ["linux", "freebsd", "openbsd", "macos"]
url: "https://new.carta.tech/motd"
---

# motd(5)

file containing message(s) of the day

## NAME

**motd** – file containing message(s) of the day

## DESCRIPTION

The file */etc/motd* is normally displayed by [login(1)](/login/1.md) after a user has logged in but before the shell is run. It is generally used for important system-wide announcements.

Individual users may suppress the display of this file by creating a file named “*.hushlogin*” in their home directories.

## FILES

- */etc/motd*

  ## EXAMPLES

```
Welcome to the University of East Westia
Make sure you have a .forward file...
4/17	Machine will be down for backups all day Saturday.
```

## SEE ALSO

[login(1)](/login/1.md)