Q & A
How can I log in as root?
It is not recommended you log in as root, so as a security feature, it is disabled by default. If you are using a terminal, you can use the prefix 'sudo' on the command line in order to run applications with administrative privileges. If you have a lot of commands that need sudo, you can use 'sudo su' to gain access to the root terminal. If you must log in as root, do it for as little time as possible. To enable logging in as root, go to System > Administration > Login Window, then go to the security tab, and check 'Allow local system administrator login'.
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=31053
Is it possible to share my Firefox/Thunderbird settings (eg bookmarks, contacts, emails etc.) between Windows and Ubuntu?
Yes. You need to create a shared profile which can be accessed by Windows or Ubuntu. You can find out how to do it using the guide in the link below. It is designed for Dapper, but should also work for Edgy and Feisty.
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=203524
Certain commands need me to use sudo. Is there a way I can specify commands that will not need me to use sudo?
Yes. Run sudo visudo -f /etc/sudoers
, and add <username> ALL = NOPASSWD: <command>
to the end of the file, replacing <username>
with your username, and <command>
with the command. Use CTRL+X to save and exit. If errors are reported, go back and edit it; don't save the file!
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=521264
How can I repair X so I can get back to a GUI?
Run the command sudo dpkg-reconfigure -phigh xserver-xorg
, to reconfigure X. You will need to know the right graphics card driver, and the maximum resolution your graphics card/monitor support. Follow the on-screen setup, then when you have finished restart X (Ctrl+Alt+Backspace). Now you should be able to get to a GUI.
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=522056