su: Authentication service cannot retrieve authentication info.

r11_kaede · 05-15-2009, 03:12 AM

Hi all,

As the subject reads, I'm unable to go to root by using the command su. I swear that I typed in the right password, no capslock.

Any suggestions/guidance will be much appreciated.

Thanks all

irishbitte · 05-15-2009, 09:18 PM

we need some more info, like your linux distribution and version.

r11_kaede · 05-16-2009, 03:46 AM

Ubuntu, Hardy Heron, 2.6.24-19.

irishbitte · 05-17-2009, 12:10 PM

Quote:

Ubuntu, Hardy Heron, 2.6.24-19

ubuntu by default has disabled the root account. It's actually a very good idea. The first account registered at installation has sudo capabilities. So to do what you are doing, try the following:

Code:

sudo -s

and type your own password. This will drop you into a root shell.

I suggest you use the sudo capabilities instead, for example:

Code:

sudo apt-get install whatever-package

as opposed to

Code:

sudo -s
Please enter password:
apt-get install whatever-package