Question about moving read-only files to new device

[Makisupa Policeman]

I have question about read-only files and permissions; I’m a bit confused.

Say I am moving read only files from an old computer to a new one, and the files were set to read-only with a different (old) administrator password. On the new computer with a new password, would I be able to change permissions with my new password, or would the old one be required to modify the files?

Alternatively, if I change the admin password on my current device, and the file permissions were set to read only with the previous password, would I need the previous password to change the file permissions as well?

 

[gilby101]

Say I am moving read only files from an old computer to a new one

Do you mean: On new computer connect to file share on old computer, and then drag and drop from the file share to a folder on the new computer?

Assuming that is what you are wanting to do:

Don't change any passwords.

When connecting (from new computer) to the file share on old computer, you need to connect with the user and password that is defined in the old computer. You can then copy (from old to new) any file for which that user has read access.

The copied files (now on the new computer) will have permissions defined by the new computer's user. You should then inspect the permissions. All will be related to the new computer's user and group. Any changes that require a password will be for a password on the new computer.

(it is easy).

 

[Makisupa Policeman]

I would most likely be copying files from a backup of the old computer like CCC or Time Machine that contains some read-only files. In that case, would I still do the above?

 

[Fishrrman]

Here's how to solve the read-only problems.
I will assume you have the files to be copied on an external drive.
The drive may need to be formatted to either APFS or HFS+ for this to work.

1. Connect the external drive to your Mac.
2. DO NOT open the drive icon (yet)
3. Click ONE TIME on the icon to select it
4. Bring up the "get info" box for the drive (command-i)
5. At the bottom of get info, click the lock icon and enter your administrative password
6. Put a checkmark into "ignore ownership on this volume" (sharing and permissions)
7. Close get info.

Now, you can copy almost anything to your [new] internal drive, and the files you copy will automatically "come under the ownership" of your new account.

I know this works for Mac-formatted drives.
It MAY NOT work for "non-Mac-formatted" drives (such as exFat, NFTS, etc.).

 

[gilby101]

I would most likely be copying files from a backup of the old computer like CCC or Time Machine that contains some read-only files. In that case, would I still do the above?

No, follow @Fishrrman and, if needed, change the volume to 'ignore ownership', BUT...

I know this works for Mac-formatted drives.

Does this work for APFS formatted TM or CCC drives?

Even if it doesn't, read-only should not be an issue for an administrator. If necessary you can use the Terminal and prefix any cp (copy) command with sudo.