Attributes and Permissions

Path Finder lets you view and edit file permissions and certain flags (like locked or hidden) using the Attributes module. This is useful for troubleshooting access issues or fine-tuning who can do what with your files.

Open the Attributes module

1. Open Path Finder.

2. In the menu bar, go to Window > Modules > Attributes.

3. The Attributes module will appear attached to the window.

Select a file or folder in the browser to see its attributes in the module.

What you can see

The Attributes module typically shows:

• Owner (user)

• Group

• Permissions (read, write, execute) for:

  • Owner

  • Group

  • Everyone / Others

• Flags, such as:

  • Locked

  • Hidden / Invisible

  • Other file-specific flags depending on macOS

This gives you a clear overview of how access is configured.

Change permissions

To change permissions:

1. Select the file/folder in the main browser.

2. In the Attributes module, adjust the read/write/execute checkboxes or dropdowns for Owner, Group, and Others (as available).

3. Changes are applied to the selected item (and optionally to its contents, if such an option is provided and you enable it).

Typical use cases:

• Fixing “permission denied” errors

• Making a script executable

• Making files read-only to avoid accidental edits

Caution: Changing permissions on system folders or other users’ data can cause problems. Only modify permissions when you’re sure what you’re doing.

Change ownership and flags

You can also:

• Change Owner and Group (if your macOS user has the necessary rights).

• Toggle flags like:

  • Locked – Prevents editing or deletion until unlocked

  • Hidden – Makes the file/folder invisible in normal views unless hidden items are shown

Use these options to protect important files or hide clutter without deleting it.

The Attributes module gives you a convenient, visual way to manage permissions and flags without needing the command line.