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What are file attributes?
File attributes are metadata values or properties of the computer file that define system behavior towards it. File attributes are different from other metadata like file extension, size, date created, date modified … etc.
File attributes can be set or cleared (true or false), for example a file can be hidden or not. Beside files, folders also have attributes.
Different file attributes description
ArchiveAbbreviation (A). When set, it indicates the file has been changed since the last backup operation. Windows file system sets this attribute on the file which has been changed. Backup software then has to clear it after a successful backup.
Hidden
Abbreviation (H). When set, it indicates the file is hidden. MS-DOS commands like dir and Windows applications like File Explorer do not show hidden files by default, unless view settings changed to do so.
System
Abbreviation (S). When set, it indicates the file is a critical system file necessary for the operating system to operate properly. MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows use it to mark important system files. MS-DOS commands like dir and Windows applications like File Explorer do not show system files by default even when hidden files are shown, unless view settings changed to do so.
Read-only
Abbreviation (R). When set, it indicates that the file should not be changed. when opening the file, operating system usually does not grant write permission to the requesting application, unless the application explicitly requests it. read more
Compressed
Abbreviation (C). When set, Windows compresses the file upon storage.
Encrypted
Abbreviation (E). When set, Windows encrypts the file upon storage to prevent unauthorized access.
Not Content-Indexed
Abbreviation (I). When set, Indexing Service or Windows Search do not include the hosting file in their indexing operation.
How to change file attributes
Read This: 4 free tools to change file attributes
