SoFunction
Updated on 2025-03-03

Several implementation methods for switching root users in Linux

Overview

In Linux operating system, the root user is the super user of the system and has permissions. Whether it is system configuration or file operation, root permission is required to perform.

Generally speaking, we use ordinary user accounts to operate to improve the security of the system. But in some cases, we need to perform some operations that require root permissions, and then we need to switch to the root user.

This article will introduce several common methods to switch to root users in Linux systems and provide some precautions.

By understanding these methods, you will be able to easily switch to root user, perform actions that require root permissions, and return to the normal user when done.

2. Method 1: Use the su command

Using the su command is one of the most common ways to switch to root.

Enter in the terminalsuCommand, then enter the root user's password to switch to the root user.

If you have not set the password of the root user before, you can usesudo passwd rootCommand to set the root user's password.

After switching to the root user, you can execute any command and make changes to the system.

Switch back to normal users to useexitCommand orCtrl + Dshortcut key.

3. Method 2: Use the sudo command

If your current user account has sudo permissions, you can use the sudo command to obtain temporary root permissions.

Enter in the terminalsudoCommand, and then enter the password of the current administrator user to obtain the permissions of the super user.

By default, the root permissions of the sudo command will be invalidated after 5 minutes.

This approach is more secure because it can limit the usage time of root permissions.

4. Method 3: Use the sudo -i command

Similar to using the sudo command,sudo -iThe command can enter the root user, but does not need to enter the password again.

Enter in the terminalsudo -iCommand, and then enter the password of the current administrator user to enter the root user.

This approach is similar to using the sudo command, but can go directly to the root user without the need for additional commands.

5. Method 4: Use the sudo su command

usesudo suCommands can quickly switch to root user without the need for root password.

Enter in the terminalsudo suCommand, then enter the current user's password to switch to the root user.

This method combines the functions of sudo and su commands, which can quickly switch to the root user, making it convenient for operations that require root permissions.

Things to note

After switching to the root user, you need to be careful to execute commands to make sure you know what you are doing, because the root user has permissions to the system and can make any changes to the system.

Incorrect operations may cause system damage, so it is recommended to switch to root only if necessary and exit the root user in time.

Summarize

In Linux system, switching to root can use a variety of methods, including using su command, sudo command, sudo -i command, and sudo su command.

The usage scenarios of each method are slightly different, and users can choose the appropriate method according to their actual needs.

After switching to the root user, you need to operate with caution to avoid irreversible impact on the system.

Through this article, you should be able to easily switch to root and learn how to perform operations that require root permissions under root.

Remember to be cautious when using root permissions, make sure you know what you are doing and exit the root user in a timely manner.

The above is personal experience. I hope you can give you a reference and I hope you can support me more.