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Check file and folder permissions

Understand permission settings and avoid making files writable by everyone.

Where Tools → Files → File Manager → Permissions

Before you start

  • Get the correct required permissions from your application or hosting provider.
  • Record the original setting. Do not assume every directory should use the same permissions.

Steps

  1. 1

    Open File Manager and locate the exact file or folder.

  2. 2

    Review the read, write and execute permissions for the owner, group and others. Execute on a directory allows traversal; it does not mean the same thing as executing a program file.

  3. 3

    Apply only the values your provider or application requires. Do not use 777 as a general fix for an upload or permission error.

  4. 4

    Avoid recursive changes unless you understand every affected file and folder. Save only when the target and scope are correct.

  5. 5

    Single-click it and inspect the Permissions column. Then click Permissions in the top toolbar to open its settings.

    The file list includes a Permissions column and a Permissions toolbar action.

Check it worked

  • Confirm the Permissions column shows the intended value.
  • Test the original problem and confirm private files have not become publicly readable or writable.