> > > Picking the default too high is a bad idea though; login names are
> > > stored in lots of files, e.g. the wtmp, and if you make them
> > > ridiculously long you'll waste a lot of space.
> >
> > Especially if there are hacks fumbling with fixed length records.
> 
> given the nature of some of the files involved, using fixed length
> records may be a hack, but it's a hack which allows the files to be
> used with some semblance of efficiency.

Just a semblance of efficiency, but I would guess that is more the
result of someones first program.

> 
> 
> > > If i recall, BSDI defaults to allowing 16 character login names.  Is
> > > there any reason we need to, by default, allow more?
> >
> > What's about 3 characters? Should be enough. Everybody knows "007", "cgd",
> > "you" and "me". 8-)
> 
> I believe that falls into the 'ridiculous' category.

No, sarcasm, but still with a smile. :-)

Henry