Using the /E Option With CACLS.EXE

 Last reviewed: June 21, 1995
Article ID: Q131780
The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation versions 3.5 and 3.51
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server versions 3.5 and 3.51

To change user permissions on a Windows NT file system (NTFS) directory or file, you must use the /E option in addition to /R (revoke), /G (grant), and /P (change) when using CACLS.EXE. If you already have permissions set for multiple users on a directory or file and do not use the /E option, all user permissions are removed except for the user and permission specified on the command line.

The following syntax should be used when modifying user permissions: 

   CACLS <filename or directory> /E /R <username>
   CACLS <filename or directory> /E /G <username>:<permission>
   CACLS <filename or directory> /E /P <username>:<permission>
where <permission> is R (Read), C (Change - write), or F (Full control).

Type the following at the command line for information on other options: 

   CACLS /?
NOTE: The /E option modifies the directory or file ACL instead of replacing the ACL with new users and permissions.

KBCategory: kbtool
KBSubcategory: ntutil ntsecurity ntfilesys
Additional reference words: prodnt 3.50 3.51 ace

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Last reviewed: June 21, 1995
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