What does the 'chmod' command do?

The 'chmod' command in Linux is used specifically to change the file permissions of a file or directory. In Unix-like operating systems, every file and directory has associated permissions that dictate who can read, write, or execute the file. The 'chmod' command allows users to modify these permissions using symbolic notation (such as 'r', 'w', 'x' for read, write, and execute) or octal notation (e.g., 755, 644) to precisely set the desired level of access for the owner, group, and others. This capability is crucial for maintaining security and control over file access in a multi-user environment.

Changing the ownership of a file is accomplished with the 'chown' command, moving files is done using the 'mv' command, and deleting files involves using the 'rm' command. Each of these commands has its specific purpose and does not overlap with the functionality of 'chmod'.