Working with Linux File Access Control Lists (FACLs)

Libraries: If you want this lab, consider one of these libraries.
Cloud
Security

Working with Linux File Access Control Lists (FACLs)

In this lab, we'll review what file access lists (FACLs) are used for. We'll set up a FACL to restrict access to a single file. We'll implement one rule to permit access for a single user, and then we'll edit permissions to remove access for all other users.

Get started Contact sales

Lab Info

Level

Beginner

Last updated

Aug 01, 2025

Duration

30m

Challenge

Create user account `pjohnson` and the project directory and file.
1. Create the user account pjohnson with the following command:
  sudo useradd pjohnson
2. Create the project directory with the following command:
  sudo mkdir /project51
3. Create the TPSreport.txt file in the /project51 directory with the following command:
  sudo touch /project51/TPSreport.txt
Challenge

Create FACL to permit user `pjohnson` access to file `TPSreprot.txt`.
1. Create a FACL for /project51/TPSreport.txt permitting user pjohnson RWX access:
  
  sudo setfacl -m u:pjohnson:rwx /project51/TPSreport.txt
Challenge

Remove access for other users from the file `/project51/TPSreport.txt`.
1. To remove other users' access, use the following command:
  
  sudo chmod o-rwx /project51/TPSreport.txt

About the author

Pluralsight Skills

Pluralsight Skills gives leaders confidence they have the skills needed to execute technology strategy. Technology teams can benchmark expertise across roles, speed up release cycles and build reliable, secure products. By leveraging our expert content, skill assessments and one-of-a-kind analytics, keep up with the pace of change, put the right people on the right projects and boost productivity. It's the most effective path to developing tech skills at scale.

Real skill practice before real-world application

Hands-on Labs are real environments created by industry experts to help you learn. These environments help you gain knowledge and experience, practice without compromising your system, test without risk, destroy without fear, and let you learn from your mistakes. Hands-on Labs: practice your skills before delivering in the real world.

Learn by doing

Engage hands-on with the tools and technologies you’re learning. You pick the skill, we provide the credentials and environment.

Follow your guide

All labs have detailed instructions and objectives, guiding you through the learning process and ensuring you understand every step.

Turn time into mastery

On average, you retain 75% more of your learning if you take time to practice. Hands-on labs set you up for success to make those skills stick.