Quick Answer
The answer is 0002, because this umask value ensures that new files created in a shared directory are automatically group-writable. The umask operates by subtracting permissions from the default base of 0666 for files; with a umask of 0002, only the “write” permission for others is removed, leaving the owner and group with read and write access (rw-rw-r--). On the CompTIA Linux+ XK0-005 exam, this concept tests your understanding of how umask interacts with shared directory permissions, often appearing in scenario-based questions where group collaboration is required. A common trap is confusing umask 0002 with 0022, which strips group write access and breaks the shared workflow. To remember it, think of the “2” in 0002 as removing the “2” (write) from the “others” position only, preserving group write.
This XK0-005 practice question tests your understanding of security. Match the stated requirement to the specific cloud service, access model, or configuration option — many options are valid in isolation but not for this scenario. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A shared directory requires that any new files created within it are automatically writable by the group. What umask value should be set for users working in this directory?
0777
Why wrong: This umask is too permissive and does not enforce group write specifically; also unusual.
0027
Why wrong: This umask removes all group permissions, contradicting the requirement.
0002
This umask subtracts 0002, giving group write permission on new files.
0022
Why wrong: This umask gives default permissions but does not grant group write (typically 755/644).
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
0002
Option C (0002) is correct because the umask subtracts permissions from the default 0666 for files. A umask of 0002 removes the 'write' permission for others (o-w), leaving the group with read/write (rw) and the owner with read/write (rw). This ensures new files are group-writable, as required for a shared directory.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
0777
Why it's wrong here
This umask is too permissive and does not enforce group write specifically; also unusual.
0027
Why it's wrong here
This umask removes all group permissions, contradicting the requirement.
0002
Why this is correct
This umask subtracts 0002, giving group write permission on new files.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
0022
Why it's wrong here
This umask gives default permissions but does not grant group write (typically 755/644).
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates often confuse umask with the final permission value, mistakenly thinking a higher umask like 0022 is safer, but it actually removes group write access, which is the opposite of what the question requires.
Detailed technical explanation
The umask is a three-digit octal mask that is subtracted from the base permissions (0666 for files, 0777 for directories) to determine the final permissions. For a shared directory, setting umask 0002 yields file permissions of 0664 (rw-rw-r--), ensuring group collaboration. In real-world scenarios, this is often combined with the setgid bit on the directory to propagate the group ownership to new files.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A network engineer segments a warehouse floor into three subnets: 20 scanners, 5 printers, and 2 management hosts. Picking the wrong mask wastes addresses or leaves too few usable hosts. Exam questions test whether you can apply CIDR notation, calculate block size, and identify the correct usable-host range for a given prefix.
What to study next
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FAQ
Security — This question tests Security — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: 0002 — Option C (0002) is correct because the umask subtracts permissions from the default 0666 for files. A umask of 0002 removes the 'write' permission for others (o-w), leaving the group with read/write (rw) and the owner with read/write (rw). This ensures new files are group-writable, as required for a shared directory.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 25, 2026
This XK0-005 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the XK0-005 exam.
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