modifying files atime or ctime

[sfullman]

Hi, I have a script which works with system files.

Problem is, after I read the file, the atime (accessed time) gets changed to the time when the script accessed it.

I want the scripts action to be transparent, is there any way to:
1. get the atime first without touching it
2. then read the file
3. then RESET the atime again?

this is an important detail, beyond scope of my knowledge.

NOTE: I'm comfortable with exec() and system calls so even if you can do it in Linux that will work fine too..

Samuel

[Weedpacket]

Um, you want to read the file without the operating system noticing that it has been read? Without going into the question of "why", have a play with [man]touch[/man].