Chmod Calculator & Permissions Converter
Convert Linux file permissions between octal, symbolic, and checkbox formats. Toggle permissions, enter an octal value, and copy a ready-to-run chmod command.
Chmod converter for Linux permissions
chmod changes file permissions on Unix and Linux systems. Permissions are grouped by owner, group, and others. Each group can read, write, and execute.
This chmod converter translates between checkbox permissions, octal notation such as 755, symbolic notation such as -rwxr-xr-x, and a copyable chmod 755 filename command.
Octal to symbolic reference
0 = --- · 1 = --x · 2 = -w- · 3 = -wx · 4 = r-- · 5 = r-x · 6 = rw- · 7 = rwx.
For example, 755 means owner rwx, group r-x, and others r-x. In symbolic form, that is -rwxr-xr-x.
Common chmod examples
755: common for directories and executable scripts, because the owner can write and everyone can read and execute.
644: common for regular website files such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and images. The owner can edit, while group and others can read.
600: useful for private key files, local secrets, and .env files where only the owner should read and write.
700: useful for private directories such as ~/.ssh, where only the owner should enter, list, or modify files.
777: gives everyone read, write, and execute permissions. Avoid it on shared or internet-facing systems unless you have a very specific reason.
Learn the full permission workflow
For more examples, including recursive chmod, directory permissions, and why chmod 777 is risky, read the chmod permissions converter guide.
FAQ
What does chmod 755 mean?
Owner can read, write, and execute. Group and others can read and execute. This is common for directories and executable scripts.
What does chmod 644 mean?
Owner can read and write. Group and others can only read. This is common for regular files such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and images.
How do I convert chmod octal to symbolic notation?
Convert each digit separately. 4 means read, 2 means write, and 1 means execute. Add them for each group, so 755 becomes rwxr-xr-x.
What does the execute bit do?
For files, execute allows running the file as a program or script. For directories, it allows entering and traversing the directory.
Should I use recursive chmod carefully?
Yes. Recursive chmod can change many files at once. Review the command and target path before running it, and usually set directories and regular files separately.