futimens - Linux
Overview
futimens is a powerful Linux command that allows users to update both the access time and modification time of a file or directory. It provides precise control over file timestamps, which can be useful for synchronizing files between systems, preserving file metadata during data transfers, and forensic analysis.
Syntax
futimens [-f] [-n] [-t] PATH...
Parameters
PATH...: A list of files or directories to modify the timestamps of.
Options/Flags
-f
Disable automatic group ownership inheritance, allowing individual file ownership to be set when combined with -n.
-n
Don’t create new timestamps if the file does not already exist. Only the file ownership will be modified.
-t
Use the current time as both the access and modification time of the file. If this flag is not used, the user must specify new values using the -a and -m flags.
Examples
Example 1: Set the access and modification times to the current time
$ futimens -t /path/to/file
Example 2: Set specific access and modification times
$ futimens -a 1658038400 -m 1658038460 /path/to/file
Example 3: Disable group ownership inheritance
$ futimens -n -f /path/to/file
Common Issues
- Ensure you have write permissions to the files you are modifying.
- When specifying timestamps, use Unix epoch time (seconds since January 1, 1970 UTC). To convert from a human-readable date, use a tool like
date +%s.
Integration
- Combine with
touchto create files with specific timestamps. - Use with
rsyncto maintain file timestamps during data transfers. - Integrate into scripts for automated file modification tasks.
Related Commands
- touch: Modifies a file’s timestamp without changing the file’s contents.
- stat: Displays file status information, including timestamps.
- date: Provides access to the current system time.