In Linux, what does the 'r' permission allow a user to do?

The 'r' permission in Linux allows a user to read the contents of a file. This means that if a user has 'r' permission on a file, they can open the file and view its contents. This permission is essential for users who need to access data stored in files, as it directly impacts their ability to view and utilize that information.

In the context of file permissions in Linux, each letter represents a specific level of access. The permission 'r' specifically denotes the ability to read, while other permissions such as 'w' allow writing (modifying the file) and 'x' permit execution (running the file if it is a script or executable program). Understanding how these permissions function is crucial for managing security and accessibility within a Linux system.