Is it possible to read content from a local text file using Javascript?

Question

I am creating a simple web page to show some content that is created dynamically on my computer and saved in a text file. In looking around, the only way I see to read content from a text file using javascript is to use something that prompts the user for a file read on their system. Something like:

<input type="file" id="fileinput" />

Is there anyway around this? Is there anyway that I can pass a filename in and read the contents?

is it possible for you to use any server side code, like php or asp? — Jeff Puckett
– Jeff Puckett, Commented Apr 17, 2016 at 2:17

Thomas · Accepted Answer · 2016-04-17 00:16:09Z

4

No, it is not possible to read a file from the browser without user interaction. That would be a serious security issue. Imagine that any website could read whatever they wanted on your computer. That opens a huge door for abuse.

edited Apr 17, 2016 at 0:16

answered Apr 16, 2016 at 23:58

Thomas

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3 Comments

XCS Over a year ago

Well, if the user is prompted and he chooses himself that file, then it is possible.

Thomas Over a year ago

@Cristy OP asked whether a means of reading a file without user interaction exists.

Rob Over a year ago

Thanks. I will just use the prompt for file.

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