read_only

  • Published on May 23, 2025
  • 1 minute(s) read
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Checks if certain system partitions are in read-only (RO) mode.

Some types of filesystem or disk errors might lead to partitions being switched to RO mode. If this check shows errors and the partitions were not intentionally mounted as RO, it is a strong indicator that the disk is in a failure state.

Consider backing up important data stored in the system immediately. If other indicators of persistent and critical filesystem-related issues are noticed in addition to this check, a full reinstall of the system through USB with the “format partitions” option will rebuild the filesystems (and wipe all existing data). If the problem persists, the disk may need to be replaced.

Command Executed

touch {dir}/.tst_file for dir equals '/var', '/etc' or '/media/hdUser'

Example:

touch /var/.tst_file

Issue Identification

  1. Navigate to Tracking :: System :: System Check and look for read-only events.

    Summary Message:   Read-Only mode detected.

  2. Drill down into the system check the entry on the System Check Summary Table or click Last Check.

  3. Check for read_only error count in the Command Table.

Issue Types

  • Read-only file system - check /var, /etc and /media/hdUser

Example Expected Output

root@nodegrid:~# touch /var/.tst_file

Example Errors Output

root@nodegrid:~# touch /var/.tst_file
touch: cannot touch '/var/.tst_file': Read-only file system