Template:File link
This template was created per proposal. It creates a file page link with Special:UnusedFiles prevention, as well as Special:Upload support if the file doesn't exist.
About
This template should only be used to link to files needed for article or project purposes but not needed as an embed. For example, an image linked in an article reference tag to support a claim. The reason for this is because any files linked using this template will never appear on Special:UnusedFiles. In the case of the reference tag image, this makes sense, since its usage as a reference is important and we don't want it to be considered for deletion as long as that link exists. But if a file is linked as an "other version" or in a talk page discussion using this template, then that file is now immune from ever showing as unused, even if it doesn't have a single embed anywhere on the wiki. For nonessential links, we still want the file to be tracked by Special:UnusedFiles, so this template should not be used. In most cases outside of mainspace, the use of this template should be avoided and a regular file link used instead: [[:File:Example.png|file link]]
:File: vs. Media:
Both prefixes display a link instead of embedding the file itself, but there are some key differences:
| Prefix | Sample | Provides a file page link | Special:UnusedFiles prevention | Provides a special link to Special:Upload if a red link has been detected |
|---|---|---|---|---|
:File:
|
File:MK8 Electrodrome Alternate Screen.png File:Aeilsdfilasjdl.png |
|||
Media:
|
Media:MK8 Electrodrome Alternate Screen.png Media:Aeilsdfilasjdl.png |
Usage
{{file link|MK8 Electrodrome Alternate Screen.png}}
{{file link|MK8 Electrodrome Alternate Screen.png|Alternate screen}}