On Thu, 8 Mar 2007, Matt Kettler wrote:

> Directories should have RWX permessions, not RW.
>
> In Directories, X takes on a different meaning, and refers to the
> ability to list files in the directory.. Without that, apps can only
> open files they already know the exact name of.

No the 'r' bit is the ability to list the files, 'x' is the ability to
make use of them.

Think of a directory like a room that may contain stuff. If the 'r'
bit is there the light is on and you can "see" what is in the room
(do a 'ls'). If the 'x' bit is missing it's like the directory has
an invisible glass door, you can see in but if you try to walk in to
do anything with the contents you smash your nose and don't get
there.

Directories missing 'x' bits are wonderful prank-ticle joke material. ;)


-- 
Dave Funk                                  University of Iowa
<dbfunk (at) engineering.uiowa.edu>        College of Engineering
319/335-5751   FAX: 319/384-0549           1256 Seamans Center
Sys_admin/Postmaster/cell_admin            Iowa City, IA 52242-1527
#include <std_disclaimer.h>
Better is not better, 'standard' is better. B{

Reply via email to