How to use the command 'GetFileInfo' (with examples)

The GetFileInfo command is a versatile tool primarily used for extracting metadata from files within an HFS+ directory. HFS+ (Hierarchical File System Plus) is particularly prevalent in macOS environments. This utility provides valuable insights about files, such as creation dates, modification dates, and even file creator details. This guide will walk you through various use cases of the GetFileInfo command with explicit examples.

Use case 1: Display information about a given file

Code:

GetFileInfo path/to/file

Motivation:

By executing this command, users who need to gather comprehensive information about a specific file can do so quickly. It offers a snapshot of the file’s vital metadata, which is essential for file management, auditing, and understanding file origin or usage.

Explanation:

• GetFileInfo: The command initiates the process of gathering file information.
• path/to/file: This argument specifies the path to the targeted file whose information is sought. It serves as an input, guiding the command to the precise file location.

Example Output:

file: "/Users/example/Documents/important_file.txt"
type: "TEXT", creator: "ttxt"
attributes: avbstclinmedz
created: 05/04/2022 14:35:10
modified: 08/11/2023 08:10:45

Use case 2: Display the [d]ate and time a given file was created

Code:

GetFileInfo -d path/to/file

Motivation:

Knowing the creation date and time of a file can be crucial for version control, understanding file timelines, or verifying file authenticity. It allows users to track when a file first originated.

Explanation:

• -d: This option specifically requests the file’s creation date and time. It acts as a filter, narrowing down the information output to only what’s relevant about the file’s inception.
• path/to/file: This again points to the specific file whose creation information is requested.

Example Output:

05/04/2022 14:35:10

Use case 3: Display the date and time a given file was last [m]odified

Code:

GetFileInfo -m path/to/file

Motivation:

This use case is beneficial for tracking modifications made to files, which can be particularly important in collaborative settings where multiple users might access and alter a document. It’s also useful for determining the most recent update in configuration files or scripts.

Explanation:

• -m: This flag instructs the command to specifically display the last modified date and time of the file. It aids in pinpointing the file’s most recent change.
• path/to/file: Defines the file path whose modification details are sought.

Example Output:

08/11/2023 08:10:45

Use case 4: Display the [c]reator of a given file

Code:

GetFileInfo -c path/to/file

Motivation:

Identifying the file creator is invaluable when managing systems where numerous files are created or edited by various programs. This can assist in diagnosing which application generated or is responsible for the file.

Explanation:

• -c: This option prompts the command to reveal the creator code of the file, which is often a representation of the application initially responsible for generating the file.
• path/to/file: Indicates the particular file for which the creator information is being sought.

Example Output:

ttxt

Conclusion:

The GetFileInfo command is a powerful utility for fetching essential metadata from files in HFS+ directories. Through its various options, users can obtain detailed insights such as file creation, modification details, and creator information, enhancing file management and system administration tasks. Each command variant provides unique and valuable data suited to specific needs in understanding file history and origin.