SetFileAttributes

SetFileAttributes is a function in the Windows API used to modify the attributes of a file or directory. These attributes are flags that provide information about the file or directory, such as whether it is read-only, hidden, or system. The function allows developers to change these attributes programmatically, which can be useful for various applications, including file management tools, security software, and system utilities.

The SetFileAttributes function takes two parameters: the first is a pointer to a null-terminated string that specifies the name of the file or directory, and the second is a DWORD value that represents the new attributes to be set. The function returns a nonzero value if successful, and zero if it fails. The error code can be retrieved using the GetLastError function.

The attributes that can be set using SetFileAttributes include:

- FILE_ATTRIBUTE_READONLY: The file or directory is read-only. Applications can read the file but cannot write to it or delete it.

- FILE_ATTRIBUTE_HIDDEN: The file or directory is hidden. It does not appear in an ordinary directory listing.

- FILE_ATTRIBUTE_SYSTEM: The file or directory is part of or used exclusively by an operating system.

- FILE_ATTRIBUTE_ARCHIVE: The file or directory is an archive file or directory. Applications use this attribute to mark files for backup or removal.

- FILE_ATTRIBUTE_NORMAL: The file or directory has no other attributes set. This attribute is mutually exclusive with all other attributes.

It is important to note that the SetFileAttributes function can only be used to set attributes; it cannot be used to retrieve them. To retrieve the attributes of a file or directory, the GetFileAttributes function should be used. Additionally, the function requires the necessary permissions to modify the attributes of the specified file or directory.