Frequently Asked Questions
How do I use the Chmod Calculator?
iOS/iPadOS: Use the wheel pickers to select permissions for Owner, Group, and Others. The chmod value updates in real-time.
Mac: Use the stepper controls (+ and - buttons) to adjust permissions. Press the Copy button to copy the full chmod command to your clipboard.
What's the difference between File and Directory mode?
The execute permission (x) has different meanings:
- File mode: Execute means "can run this file as a program"
- Directory mode: Execute means "can access contents of this directory"
Toggle the switch to see context-appropriate explanations.
How do I unlock Pro features?
Tap the Security tab to see Pro features. Tap "Unlock Pro" to purchase for $2.99. This is a Universal Purchase - buy once, use on iPhone, iPad, and Mac.
How do I scan for security issues?
On Mac: Use the Folder Scanner to drag-and-drop folders from Finder, or use Paste/Import File/OCR modes.
On iOS/iPadOS: Use Paste Terminal Output, Import File, or Scan Photo (OCR) to analyze server permissions via SSH.
Note: iOS folder scanner was removed because iOS sandboxing normalizes file permissions, making local scans misleading for security analysis.
How do I use the Paste Terminal Output feature?
- SSH into your server:
ssh user@yourserver.com - Run:
ls -lain the directory you want to analyze - Copy the output
- Open Chmod Toolkit → Security → Paste Terminal Output
- Paste the text and tap Analyze
The app automatically detects the format and analyzes permissions for security issues.
How do I import a text file for analysis?
- Save your terminal output to a file:
ls -la > permissions.txt - Transfer the file to your device (AirDrop, email, cloud storage)
- Open Chmod Toolkit → Security → Import File
- Select the text file (.txt or .rtf)
- The app will automatically analyze it
How do I use OCR to scan terminal output?
iOS/iPadOS:
- Take a photo or screenshot of your terminal output
- Open Chmod Toolkit → Security → Scan Photo
- Select the photo from your library or take a new one
- Crop the image to show only the terminal output
- Tap Analyze to process with OCR
Mac: Select screenshot files via file picker (no camera available).
What do the security levels mean?
- Critical: Immediate security risk requiring urgent action (e.g., world-readable SSH keys, 777 permissions)
- Warning: Potential security issue that should be reviewed (e.g., group-writable config files)
- Safe: Permissions are appropriate for this file type
How do I fix permission issues?
For each file with issues, tap the "Copy Fix" button to copy the recommended chmod command. You can also use "Fix All" to generate a bash script with all fixes.
Important: Review the commands before running them on your system!
How do I export scan results?
After scanning, tap the Export button in the toolbar. Choose a location to save the CSV file. You can then open it in Excel, Numbers, or Google Sheets for reporting and analysis.
What keyboard shortcuts are available? (Mac only)
Press ⌘? in the app to see all keyboard shortcuts, or choose Help → Keyboard Shortcuts from the menu bar.
Common shortcuts:
⌘1-4- Switch between tabs⌘P- New Paste Scan⌘E- Export Results⌘C- Copy Results
Troubleshooting
OCR isn't detecting text accurately
Tips for better results:
- Use a simplified command:
ls -la | awk '{print $1, $9}' - Ensure good lighting and clear text in photos
- Crop tightly around the terminal output only
- Remove browser tabs or other screen elements
- For 100% accuracy, use Paste or Import File modes instead
I can't restore my purchase
Make sure you're signed in with the same Apple ID you used to purchase. Tap "Restore Purchases" in the Pro unlock screen. If you're still having issues, contact support.
The app says a file is Critical but I think it's safe
Our security checks are based on industry standards (OWASP, CIS Benchmarks, NIST 800-53). However, some environments may have specific requirements. Use your best judgment and consult your security team if unsure.
Learning Resources
Check out the Learn tab in the app for tutorials on:
- How chmod works (the 4+2+1 system)
- Understanding user groups (Owner, Group, Other)
- Security best practices
- Common permission patterns
Browse the Examples tab for real-world chmod patterns with use cases and security notes.
Still Need Help?
Email us at: support@signalstream.app
We typically respond within 24-48 hours.
Visit our website: signalstream.app