chmod Calculator

Calculate Linux file permissions visually with numeric and symbolic notation.

Target

Quick Entry

Permission Matrix

📖 Read (4)✏️ Write (2)⚡ Execute (1) Octal
👤 Owner 7
👥 Group 5
🌍 Others 5
Numeric755
Symbolicrwxr-xr-x
Commandchmod 755 filename

Plain English Explanation

👤 Owner can read, write, execute.

👥 Group can read, execute.

🌍 Others can read, execute.

Related Tools

chmod Calculator — Linux File Permissions

Our free chmod calculator makes Linux file permissions easy to understand and configure. Use the interactive checkbox grid to set read, write, and execute permissions for owner, group, and others. The numeric (octal) and symbolic notations update in real-time, along with the ready-to-use chmod command.

You can also enter a numeric code like 755 and see the permissions visually. Common presets for web servers (644 for files, 755 for directories) are available with one click.

How to use chmod Calculator

  • Check the boxes for Read, Write, and Execute for Owner, Group, and Others.
  • Watch the numeric and symbolic notations update in real time.
  • Alternatively, enter a numeric code (e.g., 755) to see its visual representation.
  • Copy the generated chmod command to apply it.

Features

  • Interactive permission matrix — Owner/Group/Others × Read/Write/Execute checkboxes.
  • Real-time numeric (octal) and symbolic notation — Updates instantly as you toggle.
  • Ready-to-copy chmod command — Get the exact command immediately.
  • Reverse lookup — Enter a numeric code to see permissions visually.
  • Common presets — 644, 755, 777, 600, 400 with one click.
  • Permission explanation in plain English — Understand what each setting means.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does chmod 755 mean?

chmod 755 sets these permissions: Owner can read, write, and execute (7=rwx). Group can read and execute (5=r-x). Others can read and execute (5=r-x). This is the standard permission for directories and executable scripts on web servers.

What is the difference between 644 and 755?

644 (rw-r--r--) allows the owner to read and write, while group and others can only read. 755 (rwxr-xr-x) adds execute permission for all. Use 644 for regular files and 755 for directories and scripts.

How do I read symbolic permissions like rwxr-xr-x?

The 9 characters are split into 3 groups of 3: owner (rwx), group (r-x), others (r-x). 'r' = read, 'w' = write, 'x' = execute, '-' = no permission. Our calculator shows both notations side by side.