How to Change Account Types in Ubuntu Linux
Account types in Ubuntu Linux set access levels and permissions to control what you can do on your PC. A Standard account lets you run everyday apps safely, while an Administrator account gives you full system control to install software and change settings.
Ubuntu creates every new user as a Standard account by default to protect the system from accidental changes. Switch an account type whenever you need to share your computer or give someone extra permissions.
Open System Settings, click Users, and unlock the panel with your password. Select the user, then toggle the Administrator switch to On to grant administrative privileges or Off to remove them.
How to switch account type in Ubuntu Linux
You can change account type Ubuntu settings by opening the Users panel from the main system menu. Select the user account you want to update, click the account type setting, and switch between standard and administrator access. This changes what permissions the user has on your computer without needing to use the terminal.
The System Settings panel is where Ubuntu Linux keeps most of its configuration options. From here, you can manage system settings, create new users, and update your Ubuntu Linux system.
Another way is to click on the System menu in the top-right corner of your desktop’s top bar.
In the System menu, select Settings, as shown below.
Click the Users tile to open the panel within the Settings app.
In the 'Users' settings panel (you'll find it under System Settings), click 'Unlock' in the top right corner and enter your password when asked.
To change an Ubuntu Linux account's privileges, first choose the specific user whose permissions you wish to adjust. Then, under Account Settings, toggle the Administrator button to On to make that account an administrator.
To take away administrator rights, toggle the button to Off.
Your user's new account privileges update when they log in again. This account type change allows your user to access different features or permissions on the Ubuntu Linux system.
You can now close the Settings app.
Conclusion:
- Ubuntu Linux offers the flexibility of multi-user functionality, allowing separate and unique accounts and profiles on the same device.
- Users can easily switch between Standard and Administrator account types through the System Settings panel.
- Users can effectively manage account privileges and access to Ubuntu Linux by following the steps provided.
How do I change my account in Ubuntu?
To switch users, click on the system menu, typically located at the top right corner of your screen. Choose the user icon. Another option is to select another user to switch directly (if available) or choose “Power Off/ Log Out” to return to the login screen.
How to switch user as root?
You can switch user as root in Ubuntu by opening your terminal and using the sudo command. Type sudo su and press Enter to switch your current session to a root shell with full administrative rights. This gives you complete control over the system to run commands that need higher permissions.
How to switch users with sudo?
Another way to switch to another account with sudo is to use the -s option. Running sudo -s will start a shell as root. You can specify a user with the -u option.
How to change normal user to sudo user in Ubuntu?
To create a user with sudo privileges, follow these four steps: log in as root, create a new user with adduser, add them to the sudo group using usermod -aG sudo, and then verify their access with a test command. Group membership controls sudo privileges on Ubuntu.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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