Ubuntu – Cannot modify files in /root

permissionsprivilegesroot

I'm trying to modify files in the /root folder but I can't because I don't have permission.

I don't understand what is happening because i thought i'm logged in with the root but the name is just different.

I can't even add a new file, for example I'm trying to add a text file to the "www" folder to try and add a php file to run in Apache but i can't add a file.

However when i access the terminal and work with sudo it works fine but i want to do it the normal way.

The question here: how to grant my user full root privileges ? (Because i want to add and edit the "www" folder)

I'm supposed to be the root but my user directory is not in the root it is in the home directory 🙁 What's wrong ?!!!

Best Answer

I think what you are looking for is to use nautilus (that's the name of the default file manager in Ubuntu) as a root user. Although it is not advisable (especially for novice users), it is still possible to do it. Open up a terminal (Ctrl+Alt+T) and type

gksudo nautilus

Alternatively, you can type in the following lines in the terminal window

sudo su
nautilus

Enter your password when it asks for it.

This allow you to run Nautilus with root privileges. So you can now freely edit your files using the GUI instead of the terminal. I still don't see the need for it and I cannot emphasize enough on the potential risks involved. Don't blame me if you break your system using this method. You have been warned!

Related Question