# Why All Users Can Write to /tmp

I've been wondering for a while now: how come all the users on a system are able to write to the `/tmp` directory. And turns out, that `/tmp` is a special directory which uses sticky bit to achieve just that.

## What is `/tmp`?

`/tmp` is a special directory used for storing temporary files created by users and system processes.

## Permissions Explained

By default, `/tmp` is owned by `root` but has the following permissions:

`drwxrwxrwt`

This breaks down as:

* **`drwxrwxrwx`**: All users can read, write, and execute (list contents) in `/tmp`.
* **The `t` (sticky bit)**: Ensures only the owner of a file (or `root`) can delete or rename it.

## Why is `/tmp` World-Writable?

* **Temporary Storage:** Allows any user or process to create files for temporary use.
* **Security:** The sticky bit prevents users from deleting or renaming files that don’t belong to them.

## Summary

All users can write to `/tmp` because of its world-writable permissions and the sticky bit, which together provide a secure and flexible temporary workspace for everyone on the system.

***Reference(s):***

* [Reddit - Linux4Noobs](https://www.reddit.com/r/linux4noobs/comments/qhiwz4/tmp_accessible_to_all_users_securityprivacy/)
* [Stack Exchange](https://unix.stackexchange.com/a/71625)


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