Each directory entry includes a set of file attributes. File attributes specify whether the directory entry is for a file, a directory, or a volume identifier. The attributes also specify if the file is read-only, hidden, archived, or a system file.

A read-only file cannot be opened for writing, nor can it be deleted. A hidden file (or directory) cannot be displayed by using an ordinary directory listing. A system file is excluded from normal directory searches. The archived attribute is for use by special purpose applications to mark a file that has been changed since the last time the file was examined.

An application can retrieve and set the file attributes by using DosQueryFileInfo and DosSetFileInfo.


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