Overview
File permissions tell the server who can read, write, or execute files. Incorrect permissions can break uploads or create security exposure.
When this helps
Use this article when uploads fail, plugins cannot write cache files, or a developer asks about file ownership or permissions.
Recommended steps
- Avoid changing permissions without a specific reason.
- Use the least permissive setting that allows the site to work.
- Keep configuration files more restricted than public media folders.
- Review permissions after migrations or manual uploads.
- Ask XMLA before setting broad writable permissions across a whole site.
Information XMLA may need
- File or folder path
- The exact error message
- Recent upload, migration, or plugin change
- Whether the issue affects admin, media, or public pages
- SFTP or hosting account involved
Next step
If a plugin recommends broad permissions, ask XMLA to review the request before applying it.