How can I change all file permissions on my Mac?

Question

I have a slight problem with my Mac.

I got a used mac recently, and the standard home folder was called room5. I got sick of this, enabled the root user, and put all my files onto the new account that I made. However, now the permissions are all screwy. Is there a way to correct them all at the same time or do I have to modify them all one by one?

Answer 1

Now that you have this mess, the best solution is to use Disk Utility to repair permissions. If that doesn't help, you can go through the arduous task of using the Get Info window to change permissions. The problem with this latter method is that it requires much more knowledge about permissions than I have room to explain.



If you had it to do again, your better solution would have been to simply use System Preferences > Accounts to delete the old user. Depending on the version of OS X, it would either give you an option or automatically move all the files into a disk image that would be owned by your new account. That would eliminate any need to change permissions.

Answer 2

In the Finder select the top level folder you want to change permissions for and go to File>Get Info (or apple i).



Go to Sharing & Permissions (you may have to click on the disclosure triangle to make content visible).



You may need the administrator password to make changes.



When you alter permissions a dialog box should pop up asking you if you want to apply these changes to enclosed items - this should change permissions for all folders and files enclosed in the one you are changing.

Answer 3

Point a gun at it and shout your demands at it.