howto remove ds_store files from webserver xampp indexes in osx

so on my previous post i explained how to get xampp to auto start. well today i wanted to explain how to get the .ds_store files macs are known for to NOT be shown on a webpage, directory listing, indexes etc…

basically you have to modify your httpd.conf file
if you are using xampp do the following:

1. open /applications/xampp/etc/
2. find the file httpd.conf
3. open it with text edit / textmate or your preferred text editor [just not office please]
4. at the end of the file add the following code [please note you will need to remove the spaces after the < brackets as my site wont render the code correctly without the space]:
# The following command removes .DS_Store files from appearing in webpages / dir listings / indexes
# This can help prevent various exploits
< Files .DS_Store>
Order allow,deny
Deny from all
Satisfy All
< /Files>

5. save the file
6. restart all the xampp services [either via reboot or the xampp control panel]