Why is the second folder repeating the first character? I ask because I want to use a hash folder system for another project.
Topic on Project:Support desk
Why do you call "1/12" the "second" folder? (And what are complete steps to reproduce the situation and see the same situation? Which MediaWiki version?)
This is intended behaviour as described on Manual:$wgHashedUploadDirectory and OP wants to know why.
Any MediaWiki version with local file upload enabled: Folders on the first level have one sign and the subfolders in their own folder name repeat that first sign again. E.g. images/e/e5/my-image.jpg.
I don't know why this is, I only know _that_ this is this way.
From seeing the subfolder name, you also know, in which container folder you currently are. Just from seeing the subfolder name that would _not_ be the case, if it had not also the first sign in its name again. Makes navigating easier. At least that is one reason I can imagine playing a role.
Makes no sense. No one is chilling around in server folders enjoying to know where you are.
I did that often enough.