chmod
Change file permission bits.
KaliParrotLinuxlow
pkg: coreutils
chmod sets read/write/execute permissions (and special bits like SUID) — needed to run payloads and understand privesc.
Syntax
chmod {mode} {file}
Example
chmod +x exploit.sh
Marks the script executable so it can be run directly.
Options & flags
What each switch does. Toggle them in the builder below to assemble a command.
Command builder
Tick options (and fill any values) to build a ready-to-copy command.
chmod
Usage examples
chmod +x exploit.sh
Make a script executable.
chmod 600 id_rsa
Lock down a private key.
Advantages
- Core permission control
- Symbolic and octal modes
- Recursion with -R
Disadvantages
- Over-permissive modes (777) are dangerous
- Recursive misuse breaks systems
- SUID misuse = privesc risk
Tags
#permissions#filesystem
Official docs: chmod ↗
Related commands
Frequently asked questions
What is chmod used for?
chmod sets read/write/execute permissions (and special bits like SUID) — needed to run payloads and understand privesc.
What is an example chmod command?
A common example is: chmod +x exploit.sh — Marks the script executable so it can be run directly.
Is chmod part of Kali Linux?
Yes. chmod ships with Kali Linux (and Parrot OS). If missing, install it with: sudo apt install coreutils.
What category of security tool is chmod?
chmod is a Core Linux tool with a low-risk profile when run against a live target.
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