1Z0-829 Java I/O API and Securing Applications Practice Question
A developer wants to copy all files from one directory to another, preserving file attributes (e.g., last modified time, permissions). Which NIO.2 method is most appropriate?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many exam-takers confuse `REPLACE_EXISTING` with attribute preservation, assuming that replacing the target file inherently copies all metadata, when in fact `COPY_ATTRIBUTES` must be explicitly specified to preserve attributes.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Files.copy(source, target, COPY_ATTRIBUTES)
The `Files.copy(source, target, COPY_ATTRIBUTES)` method from the NIO.2 API copies the content of the file and, when the `COPY_ATTRIBUTES` option is specified, also preserves the file's metadata attributes such as last modified time, last access time, and permissions (where supported by the underlying file system). This option is specifically designed for copying with attribute preservation, making it the most appropriate choice for the developer's requirement.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Files.copy(source, target, COPY_ATTRIBUTES)
Why this is correct
COPY_ATTRIBUTES ensures attributes are preserved during copy.
- ✗
Files.copy(source, target, REPLACE_EXISTING)
Why it's wrong here
This replaces the target but does not preserve attributes.
- ✗
Files.move(source, target, ATOMIC_MOVE)
Why it's wrong here
Move operation does not necessarily preserve all attributes and is not a copy.
- ✗
Files.walkFileTree() with a custom FileVisitor that copies files
Why it's wrong here
Possible but not the simplest one-step method for copying with attributes.
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