editing configs in woody - newbie style!
 

right to the point,

box:
ancient AMD K6/2 350
128 MB RAM
40 Gig HDD
- 20 Gig Linux & 20 Gig Linux/Swap

Install:
Woody
- I don't know how to get version #
- Install came right off disk

Running:
Xwindows
Gnome 2.6 (I believe)
KDE


Problem:
How can I edit my gdm.config so that I can log on as root
I know what I need to change :

[security]
AllowRoot=true

But, how can I open and edit this file, if I cannot log on as root in the first place? I have tried various "su" commands in the gui's console, but I must be missing something.

I need to do this so that I can edit the xf86config-4 so I can fix my mouse...
then I will tackle the sound issues...
then I will tackle the Konquerer freezing and crashing issues
then I will tackle the LAN settings...
then I will take a break and drink a beer...or 6

Thanks for the help guys...this is frustrating, but I am glad that I am finally getting away from windows.

AMD k6 is not ancient, i use a PII/266 in Sid, it flies.

Did you use CD1 or the Sarge net-installer?

do you use kde and log in with gdm?

1.log in as USER, once in, do a 'su' at terminal, and become root, invoke your favorite editor and edit the file in question, as to why you wanna be root and navigate out there is beyond me. Do you have installed a firewall?

If i were you, i would reinstall and do it right this time:

if you got cd 1, type

bf24

at the prompt, and do the net install, follow the instructions from

http://osnews.com/story.php?news_id=2016

you will learn a lot about Debian with this article. After the installation learn the APT-HOWTO like the back of your hand.

APT-HOWTO
debian.org > documentation > manuals > APT-HOWTO

After the installation follow these configuration tips:

http://www.linuxquestions.org/questi...hreadid=224547

later on, come back and we will guide you thru the dist-upgrade to sarge.