A method for authenticating file operations on files and folders stored in a database file system where the database file system can authenticate a client-user request based upon the client-user's database credentials. The database file system has the capability of storing file permissions based on database credentials. Once a client requests a certain file operation, the client's operating system first determines whether the client has sufficient privileges to perform the requested file operation. If the client has privileges, the client operating system forwards the file operation request to the database file system. The database file system then authenticates the client, based on his database credentials, to determine whether or not to perform the requested file operation.