Logging in as root

[Daniel Carrera]

Rein Mann wrote:
> Is it possible to log in as root with the GUI?
> Sometimes it is a nuisance to have to do a 'su root' and for some applications
> it is simply impossible. Most other distros allow logging in as root.

This is not allowed by default, and highly not recommended. Don't do it. 
There is no good reason for you to login to the GUI as root, and I 
assure you that it is not impossible to run whatever application you 
need to administer your system. Logging in as root means that you are 
running *everything* as root, including the web browser, file manager, 
and a hundred programs that have no reason to be run as root. The root 
vs user separation is the core of the Linux security model. Its absence 
is the fundamental cause of the insecurity in Windows. That's why even 
Windows is moving towards a root vs user security model (and why Mac 
already did years ago). By logging in as root you negate every bit of 
security work that has gone into your Linux system.

If you want to run a command a root, type "sudo <command-name>" and type 
in your password. This is significantly more secure than being able to 
login as root.

I am also not sure that most distros would allow you to login to the GUI 
as root. Most distros would allow you to "su root" and to login to a 
text console as root, but logging in to the GUI as root is a different 
thing.

What program are you trying to run as root?

I don't wish to be rude, but I have to say this: I will not help you 
login to the GUI as root. I love helping new users, but I cannot bring 
myself to help someone do something harmful to themselves and to the 
larger internet community.

Best,
Daniel.
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