Regular Ubuntu users require administrative privileges for a bundle of daily tasks. For example, they may have to add or remove any program. There are two options, they either use a root account or sudo command. The same goes for configuration system settings.
All Linux-based operators work the same way, not just Ubuntu or Ubuntu 22,04. This is a complete guide about how to switch from user to root account on Ubuntu 22.04.
Method 1: Use sudo Command
Using sudo command is one of the most simple ways to use administrative privileges. If you are not a root user, you just add sudo at the start of command, and the system will allow you to do it as root, after asking the password.
Let’s say, you want to update “package index files” on the system. These files are about available packages and their versions. Here is the command to update all packages.
$ sudo apt update
Method 2: Login to Root User Account
Sometimes, it is important to login as a root account. Typing sudo is not enough. The command sudo -i allows you to login as a root user. Once you login, you will not always have to type sudo.
$ sudo -i
How to Find if you are Using Root or Normal Account
A simple command “whoami” helps you figure this out.
$ whoami
Find the List of All Users
If you want to switch from root to normal user, you should know the IDs of other users. Here is the command to find out the list of users.
$ sudo cat /etc/passwd
Switch to Specific User
Here is the command for switching to a specific user. Do not forget to replace “username” with the ID of the user you want to switch to.
$ sudo su username
Conclusion
The command sudo -i lets you switch from user to root on Ubuntu 22.04. Root user is the most important user in all Linux systems. Experts recommend not using root user for a regular system task, because it can lead to serious security consequences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I switch from user to root using sudo command in Ubuntu 22.04?
To switch to root using sudo command, simply add 'sudo' at the start of the command. For example, to update package index files, use the command 'sudo apt update'.
What is the method to login to the root user account in Ubuntu 22.04?
To login to the root user account, you can use the command 'sudo -i'. This command allows you to login as a root user and eliminates the need to type 'sudo' repeatedly.
How can I determine if I am currently using a root or normal user account in Ubuntu 22.04?
To find out if you are using a root or normal user account, simply run the command 'whoami'. It will display the username of the account you are currently using.
What command can be used to find the list of all users on Ubuntu 22.04?
To view the list of all users on Ubuntu 22.04, you can use the command 'sudo cat /etc/passwd'. This command will display the IDs of all users on the system.
How do I switch to a specific user account in Ubuntu 22.04?
To switch to a specific user account in Ubuntu 22.04, use the command 'sudo su username', replacing 'username' with the ID of the user you want to switch to.
What are the options for gaining administrative privileges on Ubuntu 22.04?
You can gain administrative privileges on Ubuntu 22.04 by either using the root account or the sudo command. Both options allow you to perform tasks that require elevated permissions.
Does the method of switching from user to root account differ across Linux-based operating systems?
No, the method of switching from user to root account is similar across all Linux-based operating systems, not just limited to Ubuntu 22.04. The same principles apply to gain administrative access.
Is it necessary to login as a root user to perform certain tasks in Ubuntu 22.04?
Although typing 'sudo' is usually sufficient, there are certain tasks where logging in as a root user is necessary. In such cases, you can use the command 'sudo -i' to login as a root user.