ubuntu
 

Hi again, trying to use ubuntu but find that getting root access isn't so easy. I am trying to edit /etc/apt/source.list , but for some reason it is "read only". Why can't we log in as root? We all know the risks of working as root.

Does anyone know how I can edit this file?

bookie

Ubuntu stands alone in disabling the root user by default.

Easy to fix:
sudo passwd root
enter your user password
enter new root passwd at the prompt

Now you can su to become root when needed

Or---just use sudo for things that need root powers.

To open a files as root with a graphical editor--eg gedit:
su
gedit <filename>

OR

sudo gedit <filename>

Hey bookie, i don't recommend, making your root account just do this "sudo gedit /etc/apt/source.list " iw ill open the file, and you will be able to save it, any time you need to be root for something, just put sudo then the command, gedit is the gedit text editor etc.... btw the password it asks for is your normal user password, good luck...

update
 

Thanks for the help guys. It is always easy when you know how.

Thanks again.
bookie