Python Bitwise Operators

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Python Bitwise Operators

Bitwise operators unlock low-level tasks like masking, permissions, and performance-sensitive math.

Review operationsSee real examples

Operations

Operator	Meaning	Example
&	AND	flags & 0b0101
`	`	OR
^	XOR	a ^ b
~	NOT	~value (bitwise complement)
<<	Left shift	value << 1 multiplies by 2
>>	Right shift	value >> 1 floor-divides by 2

Examples

READ = 0b001
WRITE = 0b010
EXECUTE = 0b100

permissions = READ | WRITE
has_write = bool(permissions & WRITE)

Use bitmasks for feature flags, permissions, or compact storage.

Next up in your learning path

Arithmetic operators

Pair with math operations for completeness.

Companion

Identity vs equality

Avoid confusing bitwise and boolean logic.

Tip

Projects with permissions

Implement ACLs or feature toggles as practice.

Project