Re: Why can’t files contain ? / \ : < >
Filenames cannot contain characters that are interpretted by the OS as special or delimiting. The full list of invalid characters is \/:*?"<>| and, although not specifically mentioned, I would include . as well as that serves to separate the filename itself from the 3 character file extension.
\ File System. Used to separate folders in the path.
/ Internet. Used to separate folders in the path. Must be // immediately after the : delimiter.
: Used to delimit the source (drive letter or internet protocol) from the rest of the path.
* Multiple character wildcard. Useful for searching and command line functions.
? Single character wildcard. Useful for searching and command line functions.
" Used in command line functions where a required filename and/or path contains one or more space characters.
<> File redirection characters used in command line functions.
| Used in command line functions.