Work out Linux and Unix file permissions without memorising numbers. Tick boxes for the owner, group and everyone else, or type 755 or rwxr-xr-x, and get the matching number, letters and ready chmod command.
loading toolHow to work out chmod permissions
- Tick the permissions you want, or type a number or letters.
- Type your file name to fill in the command.
- Copy the chmod command and run it in your terminal.
Good to know
- On a folder, “execute” means being allowed to open it and reach the files inside.
- Use
chmod -Rwith care: it changes every file inside a folder too.
Questions
What do the numbers mean?
Each digit is one group: owner, group, others. Read = 4, write = 2, execute = 1, added together. 7 = 4+2+1 (everything), 5 = 4+1 (read and run), 4 = read only.
What should my website files use?
Usually 644 for files and 755 for folders. Private files such as .env or SSH keys should be 600.
Is 777 safe?
Almost never. It lets anyone on the server change or replace the file. Hosts often refuse to run scripts set to 777.
Is my data private?
Yes. Everything happens inside your own browser: nothing you type or choose is uploaded to us or anyone else.
Is it free?
Completely free, with no sign-up, no watermark and no limit on how many times you use it. Light ads keep the site running.
