Quick Tip

Unmasking Hidden File Permissions with `stat`

Challenge: Understanding the exact permissions and ownership of a file can sometimes be obscured by symbolic links or complex permission structures. You need a quick and definitive way to see the raw, unadulterated file metadata.

The Solution: Utilize the `stat` command with the `-c` (format) option and specific format specifiers.

stat -c "%U:%G %a %n" your_file_or_directory

Why it works: The `stat` command provides detailed file status. The `-c` option allows us to specify a custom output format. `%U` displays the owner’s username, `%G` displays the group’s name, `%a` displays the file’s permissions in octal format, and `%n` displays the filename. This combination gives you a clear, human-readable snapshot of ownership and permissions.

Pro-Tip: To see the inode number, device, and number of hard links, add `%i %d %h` to the format string: stat -c "%i %d %h %U:%G %a %n" your_file_or_directory

Linux Tips & Tricks | © ngelinux.com | 4/25/2026