default file and folder permissions in linux for laravel

In a Linux environment, Laravel projects generally use file permissions of 644 for files and 755 for folders, with some exceptions for specific directories like storage and bootstrap/cache which might require 775 or even 777 for write access by the web server user. 

File Permissions (644):

  • Owner: Read and Write (rw)
  • Group: Read (r)
  • Others: Read (r) 

Folder Permissions (755):

  • Owner: Read, Write, and Execute (rwx)
  • Group: Read and Execute (r-x)
  • Others: Read and Execute (r-x) 

Special Cases (775/777):

  • storage and bootstrap/cache:These directories need write access for the web server user (often www-data) to store temporary files, logs, and cached data. Therefore, these folders may require 775 or even 777 permissions to allow the web server to write to them. 
  • Other writable folders:Depending on your project’s specific needs, you may also need to adjust permissions for other folders that require write access by the web server. 

Why these permissions?

  • Security:Limiting permissions to the minimum necessary helps prevent unauthorized access and modification. 
  • Performance:Allowing the web server to access and modify files without excessive permissions improves performance. 
  • Laravel Functionality:Laravel relies on certain directories being writable to function correctly. 

How to set permissions:

You can use the chmod command to change file and folder permissions. For example: 

  • To set all files to 644: chmod -R 644 ./*
  • To set all folders to 755: chmod -R 755 ./*
  • To set storage and bootstrap/cache to 775: chmod -R 775 storage bootstrap/cache

Important Considerations:

  • Web Server User:Make sure the web server user (e.g., www-data) has the necessary permissions (write, read, execute) on the relevant directories. 
  • Project Root:These commands should be run from the project’s root directory. 
  • Recursive Changes:The -R flag applies the changes recursively to all files and folders within the current directory. 
  • Security:Avoid excessive permissions on files and folders, as it can create security vulnerabilities.



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