How do I access and read a local file from html+javascript page running locally

Question

I would like to write a small html file that would run locally and manipulate a small text file on my computer. My requirements are:

• Text file sits in a directory on my computer (test.txt)
• Html file is in the same directory as the text file (test.html)
• I would like to use javascript in the html to read and write the text file.

Is this possible at all? If yes, how do I read and write my text file using javascript?

Answer 1

Normally, it is not possible and would be a security issue.
How ever, if you use some plugins (ActiveX, FF extensions etc) they may enable you to do so.
There is also the subject of local storage you can use with the most newer browsers.

From your comments, I am wondering why not using PHP/Ruby any other server side language to do so? They are tailored just for that.