How do you enable root on Yosemite?
I'd like to use sudo, but sudo is disabled by default. It can only be enabled by first enabling root. But, never fear, I found an answer here: http://www.mtsoukalos.eu/enable-root-yosemite. The only hitch with his procedure is that before you can perform step 2, you must click on the lock and enter the administrative password.
Do a backup before doing anything. To delete them you will need to enable the Root User and log in as the Root User. You need to be very careful while logged in as the Root User because you can delete any file and could potentially ruin your system. As soon as the non-functioning applications are deleted, log out and use your normal account. Did I mention doing a backup?
Please do not enable 'root'.
Use the 'sudo' command instead.
sudo command args # command you want to execute as root
Password: your_accounts_password_assuming_you_are_logged_in_as_an_Admin
If you just need a root prompt for a short duration, then use
sudo -s
sudo su
sudo su -
sudo bash
sudo bash -l
all of which will give you a root prompt.
If you need to run a GUI app as root, then try
sudo open -a "Application Name"
If you are still intent on enabling the root account, then you need to give it a valid password
/System/Library/CoreServices/Applications/Directory Utility -> Edit -> Enable Root User
You can then use Directory Utility to disable the root account.
Not true. sudo works for any admin account. The only thing disabled about the 'root' account is that it does not have a password. Otherwise the 'root' account is fully functional.
I've been able to use sudo on many different Macs, as well as Linux, AIX and Solaris Unix'y systems. I use sudo all the time as part of my job.
If you cannot use sudo, then your /etc/sudoers file has been corrupted, or you are not logged in as a Mac admin.
All that enabling root does is make your system more vulnerable to attack.
Thanks BobHarris,
I tried to say that but it appears my post was deleted along with the reply Karen.
I know that is how sudo works on my Macs just as you say without any problems.
I also concur that the enabling of root is a huge unnecessary security hole on the Mac.
Why do you think you need to enable root?
No, sudo only works when root is already enabled.
I tried to say that but it appears my post was deleted along with the reply Karen.
I caught some of that in the email stream that got sent before some of the posts were removed.
How do you enable root on Yosemite?
