Clifm CLI
Clifm is a file manager that opens a batch of filenames in an editor and asks for confirmation before renaming them.
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Extended access
Why this level
- File and system commands can modify or delete data with the current user’s permissions.
Install
Manual install
git clone https://github.com/leo-arch/clifm.git
cd clifm
sudo make installFirst From source block for Linux/BSD. Review dependencies and build contents before installing.
Access and checks
How we reviewExtended accessThe tool runs code or makes network calls and only reads external data.
- File and system commands can modify or delete data with the current user’s permissions.
This is third-party code. Review the repository files before installing.
What it does
Clifm is a file manager operated through a command line with suggestions and completion. Users can search and select files, assign tags, rename items in bulk, manage archives and jump between frequently used directories. Its shell-like interface also executes ordinary system commands. Separate modes list files, inspect metadata or analyze disk usage. Plugins and custom commands extend behavior; autocommands can run on navigation, so review configuration before using sensitive directories.
Who it is for. Linux and BSD users who prefer command-driven file management with completion and bulk operations.
Good fit when
- A user selects files by pattern and renames them as a batch.
- Project files are located by name with filters.
- Frequent directory changes use bookmarks and history.
- Different file sets are organized with tags and separate workspaces.
Not a fit when
- You need visual panels and menus.
- System-command execution must be completely prohibited.
- You need a ready-made MCP connection instead of a manual shell.
Example request
Prepare a Clifm bulk-renaming plan with selection review and a backup.Limitations
The README source build targets Linux and BSD; other platforms require their own installation guidance. Previews, archives and plugins may need external programs installed for the chosen features. Custom commands, plugins and autocommands run with your account permissions, so inspect their contents. Bulk deletion and renaming affect the entire selected set; review the selection and keep copies of important material before confirming operations.
How to disable. Quit Clifm and remove shell integration if it is no longer needed. Restore renamed or deleted files separately through Git or a backup.
FAQ
Is it a regular shell?
No. It is a file manager with a shell-like interface, which can also execute system commands.
Does it support bulk renaming?
Yes. Enter `br` followed by the filenames. Clifm opens the list in a text editor; edit names, save and close it, then confirm the rename. See the [bulk-operation guide](https://github.com/leo-arch/clifm/wiki/Advanced#bulk-operations).
Can I search with patterns?
Yes. Enter `/*.pdf` at the Clifm prompt to list PDF files in the current directory. See the [search guide](https://github.com/leo-arch/clifm/wiki/Common-Operations#searching) for regular expressions and searches in other directories.
How do I open built-in help?
Enter `help` or `?` at the Clifm prompt.
Are external programs required?
Some features need them. Check preview, archive and selected-plugin dependencies.
Discussion
No questions or reviews yet.
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README in short
Profiles, colors and keyboard shortcuts have separate settings. The documentation lists dependencies for external preview and archive programs.