Read-Only File Attribute in MS-DOS 6.22

In MS-DOS 6.22, the Read-Only attribute prevents a file from being modified, overwritten, or deleted. This article explains how the Read-Only attribute works, how to view and set it using the native command line, and how to remove it when changes are required.

The Read-Only Attribute

MS-DOS uses file attributes to control how the operating system and user applications interact with files. The Read-Only attribute is represented by the letter R.

When a file has the Read-Only attribute enabled:

  • The DEL or ERASE commands will refuse to delete the file, returning an "Access denied" error message.
  • Programs (such as the MS-DOS Editor) cannot overwrite or save changes directly to the existing file.
  • System operations cannot overwrite the file during file copies without explicit prompts or aborts.

How to Check File Attributes

To check whether a file is currently marked as Read-Only, use the ATTRIB command followed by the filename:

ATTRIB FILENAME.EXT

If the file is Read-Only, an R will appear on the left side of the output screen next to the file's path.

How to Enable the Read-Only Attribute

To protect a file from modification or deletion, apply the Read-Only flag using the plus sign (+):

ATTRIB +R FILENAME.EXT

You can also apply this attribute to all files in a directory using wildcards:

ATTRIB +R *.*

To include all subdirectories within a folder, add the /S switch:

ATTRIB +R *.* /S

How to Remove the Read-Only Attribute

If you need to edit or delete the file later, clear the attribute by using the minus sign (-):

ATTRIB -R FILENAME.EXT

Once the attribute is removed, the file can be modified or deleted as normal.