root cant log into KDE desktop, access denied

[philwebs]

Up until yesterday I could log into a KDE desktop as root.

Now I cant get a root KDE desktop, "Root log in is not allowed"

The KDE login manager settings look ok, so some other file must have changed and needs changing back

Unclear how root can be denied access to any part of the system.

Pointers please as to where to look so I can log in to a KDE session as root,

Regards Phil

[sharth]

double check your kdm config, often login managers disable root login as a security measure. (so only su access works).

[carrja99]

I fail to see the need to log in as root and load up KDE. That's bad bad bad!

What are you going to do next, irc as root? :D

There is really no need for you to be superuser while using X... if you need to run any superuser programs or edit config files, either su to root in a terminal or use sudo (which gives you temp superuser just to run the program). read the manpages and infos on su and sudo.

Here's a contest. Whoever can name the most number of security issues that result from logging into KDE as root wins a cookie!

[mdwatts]

Originally posted by carrja99

Here's a contest. Whoever can name the most number of security issues that result from logging into KDE as root wins a cookie!

I think it only fair that a moderator such as myself keeps the cookie safe until we have a winner, so send it to me and I'll keep an eye on it. :)

[philwebs]

Thanks all, much appreciated.

Still trying to unravel the kdm config to see how it works.

I promise to be a good boy and leave it alone, preventing root from using x11 proggys. I will now su and use a text basher to do anything needed (but I cant abide vi)

I have also been through some books and surprisingly there is naff all on this matter. Only see a passing mention at the end of the x11 User howto.

Off topic - MGP (motorbike) practice Tuesday)

Went to see the evening practice at Glen Vine, fast bit of the course. The Manx Grand Prix is the amateur/classic version of the June TT bike races, oldest in the world, over a 37.75 mile road circuit.
(www.iomtt.com)

About 200 bikes out, mixture of the modern and classics (from Hailwood/Agostini days)

Modern bikes high reving and quiet.

Older classic bikes sound like fast revving Harleys, and are deafening, especially in bunches. Different fairings and riding positions, but nearly as quick as the modern bikes.

Nice to see them going round, pain that they close the main roads.....


Thanks again, I will go and look at the kdm config

Phil