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.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard is a writer at Geek Rewind who turns complex IT tasks into clear, step-by-step guides. He draws on years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, focusing on Windows, Linux and WordPress: the problems people actually run into, and the fixes that work. His server and WordPress guides come from systems he runs himself. Richard builds and maintains the platform behind Geek Rewind, from its Ubuntu servers and Nginx configuration to its custom WordPress plugins. Many new tutorials start with readers' questions, and he's always glad to answer them in the comments.
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