Quick Answer
The answer is `ls -Z` and `stat -c %C`. Both commands display the SELinux context of a file, which is the security label consisting of user, role, type, and sensitivity components that the SELinux policy uses to enforce mandatory access controls. The `-Z` flag on `ls` appends the security context to each file’s listing, while `stat -c %C` uses the `%C` format specifier to output only the context string, making it ideal for scripting or precise inspection. On the Red Hat Certified System Administrator EX200 exam, this tests your ability to verify SELinux labels quickly, often in troubleshooting scenarios where a service is denied access due to a mislabeled file. A common trap is forgetting that `ls -Z` works on directories and files alike, while `stat -c %C` requires a specific file argument. Memory tip: think of “Z” as “Zone” for security zones, and “%C” as “Context” in stat’s format codes.
This EX200 practice question tests your understanding of manage security. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. 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.
Which TWO commands can be used to display SELinux contexts of files? (Choose two.)
stat -c %C
Displays SELinux context with %C format.
chcon -l
Why wrong: Changes context; does not display.
id -Z
Why wrong: Shows context of current process, not files.
ls -Z
Shows SELinux context of files.
getenforce
Why wrong: Shows enforcing mode, not file contexts.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
stat -c %C
The `stat -c %C` command displays the SELinux security context of a file by using the `%C` format specifier, which outputs the security context string. The `ls -Z` command also shows SELinux contexts for files in a directory listing, with the `-Z` flag specifically requesting security context information. Both commands are standard tools for viewing SELinux labels on files.
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.
stat -c %C
Why this is correct
Displays SELinux context with %C format.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
chcon -l
Why it's wrong here
Changes context; does not display.
id -Z
Why it's wrong here
Shows context of current process, not files.
ls -Z
Why this is correct
Shows SELinux context of files.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
getenforce
Why it's wrong here
Shows enforcing mode, not file contexts.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates confuse commands that display process or system-wide SELinux status (like `id -Z` and `getenforce`) with those that display file contexts, leading them to select options that show user or enforcement mode instead of file labels.
Trap categories for this question
Command / output trap
Shows context of current process, not files.
Detailed technical explanation
SELinux contexts consist of user:role:type:level (e.g., unconfined_u:object_r:user_home_t:s0), and the `stat -c %C` command uses the `stat` system call to retrieve the extended attribute `security.selinux` from the inode. The `ls -Z` command reads the same extended attribute but formats output for directory listings, making it useful for quick verification of file labels. In real-world scenarios, administrators use these commands to troubleshoot permission denials (AVC denials) by confirming that file contexts match expected policy types.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the EX200 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
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FAQ
Manage security — This question tests Manage security — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: stat -c %C — The `stat -c %C` command displays the SELinux security context of a file by using the `%C` format specifier, which outputs the security context string. The `ls -Z` command also shows SELinux contexts for files in a directory listing, with the `-Z` flag specifically requesting security context information. Both commands are standard tools for viewing SELinux labels on files.
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 11, 2026
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