>>>> SELECT * from mytable WHERE myfield LIKE "%.%.%" >>>> AND NOT myfield LIKE "%.%.%.%" > > > A.B.C.D matches both conditions and therefore would not be selected. > A.B.C only matches the first condition and therefore would be selected. you're absolutely right, tab and i am an idiot ® ™ © <tip type="sql"> when in doubt, test </tip> rudy