What Is the Difference Between Change Time and Modification Time in Unix?
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“Modify” is the timestamp of the last time the file’s content has been mofified. This is often called “mtime”. “Change” is the timestamp of the last time the file’s inode has been changed, like by changing permissions, ownership, file name, number of hard links. It’s often called “ctime”.

What is the difference between change time and modification time of a file in Unix?

Modification Time: is the time when the contents of the file was last modified. For example, you used an editor to add new content or delete some existing content. Change Time: is the time when the file’s inode has been changed. For example, by changing permissions, ownership, file name, number of hard links.

What is the difference between modify and change?

When used as verbs, change means to become something different, whereas modify means to make partial changes to. … Change as a verb (intransitive): To become something different.

Sarah Jenkins

Sarah Jenkins

Senior Technology Editor & AI Specialist

Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.

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