very basic about initial install

[reader at newsguy.com]

Zach <uid000 at gmail.com> writes:

>>  So to rephrase this:  Sudo fails with the message that my machine name
>>  cannot be resolved.  Consequently all attempts to use sudo do not
>>  result in any commands being run as root.
>
> There clearly is some other problem going on here, didn't realize that
> sudo needed/cared about local hostname resolution.  You're logging in
> as your unpriv user, then using sudo?

Yes, but it may be a moot point now since I'm trying the server install now

>>
>>  Is there really no way to get a root terminal?
>
> If you want a root shell for troubleshooting/recovery/etc, choose
> recovery mode in the grub menu (You may have to hit "esc" to get grub
> to show the menu).

Probably what I should have done...

>>
>>  Also is there no way to have a text terminal console, after the
>>  install?  That is get clear away from the gui mess.  I need the
>>  regular unix style command line.
>
> If you really want no gui at all, ever, I recommend the server install
> CD.  It gives you a very basic installation that you can build on by
> installing packages of your choosing.

Sounds like just what I'm after.... thanks.