Using the /E Option With CACLS.EXE

ID: Q131780

The information in this article applies to:

Microsoft Windows NT Workstation versions 3.5, 3.51
Microsoft Windows NT Server versions 3.5, 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.

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