It is essential to secure your Linux system by regularly changing the root user password. The root user has unrestricted access to the system, and if an unauthorized person acquires a root password, they can compromise your system, steal data, and wreak havoc. Changing the root password at regular intervals enhances system security, and fortunately, it is a simple task on Kali Linux using Terminal. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to change the root password on Kali Linux using the terminal.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Change Root Password on Kali Linux Using Terminal
As mentioned earlier, changing the root password on your Linux system regularly is an important security measure. This is because Linux operates in a multiuser environment where multiple users can access and interact with the system concurrently. While you can limit user privileges to prevent unauthorized access, the root user has full access to the system, including sensitive data, system configurations, and installed applications. Changing the root password is an essential security practice that prevents unauthorized access by individuals with malicious intent.
Method 1: Change Root Password on Kali Linux via Terminal
In this section, we will guide you step by step on how to change the root password on Kali Linux via the terminal.
Step 1: Launch the Terminal by pressing "Ctrl + Alt + T" or click the terminal icon on the system desktop.
Step 2: Switch to the root user account by typing the following command and pressing Enter:
Step 3: Enter your administrative credentials when prompted, i.e., the user account password, then press Enter.
Step 4: Once logged in as root, type the following command, then press Enter:
Step 5: Enter a new strong root password twice when prompted to create a new root password for the system.
Note: A strong password should comprise at least eight characters and have a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
Your root password is now changed successfully!
Pros:
– Simple and secure method
– No additional software required
Cons:
– It requires you to log in as the root user before changing the password, which can be risky if you are not careful.
Method 2: Change Root Password on Kali Linux Using the “passwd” Command
This method involves using the "passwd" command on the terminal to change the root password. This method is similar to method 1 above, but it does not require you to switch to the root user before changing the password, as you can change the password from the terminal while logged in as an administrative user.
Step 1: Launch the Terminal by pressing "Ctrl + Alt + T" or click the terminal icon on the system desktop.
Step 2: Type the following command on the terminal, then press Enter:
Note: You will need to enter your administrative credentials, i.e., your user account password, when prompted.
Step 3: Enter your new root password twice as prompted. Ensure that your password meets the necessary complexity requirements.
Your root password is now changed successfully!
Pros:
– It does not require switching to the root user account
– A simple and secure method
Cons:
– None identified
Method 3: Change Root Password on Kali Linux Using the Graphical Interface
Kali Linux also provides users with a graphical interface to change the root password through the Settings menu. This method is suitable for users who may not be comfortable with using the terminal.
Step 1: Click on the Applications icon on the system desktop and select the Settings icon.
Step 2: Click on the "Details" tab and select "Users".
Step 3: Click on the "Unlock" icon and enter your user account password.
Step 4: Click on the "Root" account and select the "Password" icon.
Step 5: Enter your new root password twice, then click on "Change".
Your root password is now changed successfully!
Pros:
– Suitable for users who may not be comfortable with the terminal
Cons:
– It is less secure than method 1 and method 2 above
– The graphical interface may be slower than the terminal
What to Do If You Can’t Change Root Password on Kali Linux Using Terminal
If you are unable to change the root password on Kali Linux using the terminal, try the following:
– Ensure you are logged in as an administrative user with sudo privileges
– Confirm that your password meets the complexity requirements
– Test if your terminal can type the password correctly by typing it in the terminal window
Bonus Tip
Consider setting up automatic password expiration policies for all user accounts, including the root user. This ensures that all users are reminded to change their passwords regularly.
5 FAQs
Q1: How often should I change my root password on Kali Linux?
A: We recommend changing your root password on Kali Linux quarterly or every three months.
Q2: How can I secure my Kali Linux system better?
A: Ensure that you regularly install system updates, use firewall software, and password-protect all user accounts. Also, disable any unnecessary services on your system.
Q3: Can I use a password manager on Kali Linux?
A: Yes, you can use password managers like KeePass, LastPass, and Bitwarden to store your passwords securely.
Q4: Will changing my root password affect the system settings?
A: No, changing the root password should not affect any system settings.
Q5: Why is changing root password necessary on Kali Linux?
A: Changing the root password on Kali Linux is necessary to maintain system security and prevent unauthorized access by malicious individuals.
Final Thoughts
Changing the root password on Kali Linux is a crucial security measure that helps safeguard your system data and configurations from unauthorized access. As shown in this blog post, changing the root password using the terminal is a simple and secure method, and you can follow the steps described above to change your root password effortlessly. Remember to change your password regularly, ensure that it meets the password complexity requirements, and store it securely. We hope that you found this blog post useful and informative.