MacOS GetFileInfo command

The MacOS getfileinfo command is a powerful tool that allows users to retrieve detailed metadata information about files and directories on their system. This command provides essential information such as file type, creator code, file size, and modification date. By using getfileinfo, users can easily access crucial details about their files without having to open them individually. This command is especially useful for users who need to quickly gather information about multiple files or for scripting purposes. With getfileinfo, MacOS users can efficiently manage and organize their files based on their metadata attributes.

GetFileInfo Syntax:

mdls [option] [parameter]

Options:

Option	Description
-name	Display the specified metadata property
-raw	Display raw value of metadata property
-plist	Output in plist format
-null	Separate attribute-value pairs with nulls
-humanReadable	Convert file sizes to human-readable strings

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
file_path	Path to the file for which metadata is needed

Caution

Exercise caution when using the ‘mdls’ command, as it directly accesses metadata of files and can reveal sensitive information. Ensure that you have the necessary permissions to access the specified file.

Check File Information

getfileinfo -a ~/Documents/example.txt

This command displays all available information about the file “example.txt” located in the “Documents” directory.

Display Only File Type

getfileinfo -t ~/Pictures/photo.jpg

This command shows only the file type of the specified image “photo.jpg” in the “Pictures” directory.

Get Extended Attributes

getfileinfo -x ~/Downloads/document.pdf

Use this command to retrieve the extended attributes of the file “document.pdf” located in the “Downloads” directory.

Show Resource Fork Information

getfileinfo -r ~/Music/song.mp3

By executing this command, you can view the resource fork information of the file “song.mp3” in the “Music” directory.

## GetFileInfo Usage:
### Check File Information
```bash
getfileinfo -a ~/Documents/example.txt

This command displays all available information about the file “example.txt” located in the “Documents” directory.

Display Only File Type

getfileinfo -t ~/Pictures/photo.jpg

This command shows only the file type of the specified image “photo.jpg” in the “Pictures” directory.

Get Extended Attributes

getfileinfo -x ~/Downloads/document.pdf

Use this command to retrieve the extended attributes of the file “document.pdf” located in the “Downloads” directory.

Show Resource Fork Information

getfileinfo -r ~/Music/song.mp3

By executing this command, you can view the resource fork information of the file “song.mp3” in the “Music” directory.

Tip

When using the getfileinfo command in MacOS, make sure to replace with the appropriate option or file path you want to inspect. Double-check your input to avoid errors and ensure you have the necessary permissions to access the files you are inspecting.

How do I use getfileinfo in MacOS?

To use the getfileinfo command in MacOS, execute the following command:

getfileinfo --name /path/to/file

How can I check the file type with getfileinfo in MacOS?

To check the file type using getfileinfo in MacOS, run the following command:

getfileinfo --fileType /path/to/file

How do I display the file creator and type information with getfileinfo in MacOS?

To display the file creator and type information using getfileinfo in MacOS, use the following command:

getfileinfo --creatorType /path/to/file

How can I get information about the file size using getfileinfo in MacOS?

To retrieve information about the file size with getfileinfo in MacOS, enter the following command:

getfileinfo --size /path/to/file

How do I show all available information about a file using getfileinfo in MacOS?

To display all available information about a file with getfileinfo in MacOS, use the following command:

getfileinfo --full /path/to/file

How can I get the file flags using getfileinfo in MacOS?

To obtain the file flags using getfileinfo in MacOS, execute the following command:

getfileinfo --flags /path/to/file

How do I view the file metadata attributes with getfileinfo in MacOS?

To view the file metadata attributes using getfileinfo in MacOS, run the following command:

getfileinfo --attributes /path/to/file

Applications of the GetFileInfo command

• Retrieving information about files in the MacOS system.
• Checking the file type, creator, and other attributes.
• Viewing details like file size, creation date, and modification date.
• Assisting in file management and organization.
• Verifying file information for troubleshooting or maintenance purposes.
• Providing metadata details for files when needed.