chmod Calculator
Convert Unix file permissions between octal and symbolic (rwx).
About this tool
Convert Unix file permissions between octal and symbolic (rwx). Saves time when logs, design specs, or infra configs use a different format than your code expects.
Enter either octal permissions (755, 0644) or a 9-character symbolic string (rwxr-xr-x). Review the octal, symbolic, and ls -l style lines in the output. Example — Octal 755 explained: try `755` and expect something like `Octal: 755 Symbolic: rwxr-xr-x ls -l: -rwxr-xr-x Command: chmod 755 <file>`.
Special bits (setuid, setgid, sticky) beyond a leading fourth digit are not fully modeled in the breakdown. See also: Number Base Converter, and Bytes Converter. Runs in your browser — nothing you paste gets uploaded.
How to use
- Enter either octal permissions (755, 0644) or a 9-character symbolic string (rwxr-xr-x).
- Review the octal, symbolic, and ls -l style lines in the output.
- Read the Owner / Group / Others breakdown for read, write, and execute.
- Copy the suggested chmod command into your terminal or setup script.
Example
Octal 755 explained
Input
755
Output
Octal: 755 Symbolic: rwxr-xr-x ls -l: -rwxr-xr-x Command: chmod 755 <file>
Limitations
- Special bits (setuid, setgid, sticky) beyond a leading fourth digit are not fully modeled in the breakdown.
- Does not inspect or change real filesystem permissions — it only converts the notation.
- ACLs, SELinux labels, and Windows ACEs are out of scope.
Related guides
1Related tools
2Frequently asked questions
What does the chmod Calculator do?
Convert Unix file permissions between octal and symbolic (rwx). Runs in your browser — no install, no account.
How do I use the chmod Calculator?
Enter either octal permissions (755, 0644) or a 9-character symbolic string (rwxr-xr-x). Review the octal, symbolic, and ls -l style lines in the output. Read the Owner / Group / Others breakdown for read, write, and execute. Copy the suggested chmod command into your terminal or setup script.
Is the chmod Calculator free?
Yes. No signup, no usage limits, no paywall.
Does the chmod Calculator upload my data?
No. Processing happens locally in JavaScript. Your input is not uploaded, stored, or logged.
What are the limitations of the chmod Calculator?
Special bits (setuid, setgid, sticky) beyond a leading fourth digit are not fully modeled in the breakdown. Does not inspect or change real filesystem permissions — it only converts the notation. ACLs, SELinux labels, and Windows ACEs are out of scope.