How to Set a Specific Timestamp in a File Using Linux | Touch Command Explained

How to Set a Specific Timestamp in a File Using Linux | Touch Command Explained
Want to change the date and time of a file in Linux? In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to set a specific timestamp (modification, access, or both) using the touch command. Perfect for developers, sysadmins, or ethical hackers needing to manipulate file metadata for automation or testing. You'll learn how to apply a custom datetime using simple one-liners that work in all major Linux distros.

We’ll cover:

Setting a custom date/time using touch -t

Changing access/modification times only

Creating files with backdated timestamps

Real-world use cases for file timestamp edits

Learn Linux the practical way!

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