hey I have a linux problem with installing software?

Question

okay I downloaded something well I tried to install it with the install software tool and it gave me the error must have superuser privileges to install local packages how do I get superuser privileges I've been trying but cant seem to get it I just keep getting that same error message can anyone help me

Answer 1

log in as root then install

Answer 2

I will add the first answer is correct, you have to Log In as Root!
I not real good with Linux, but, I am learning. You may need to tell what Linux you are using. I use Ubuntu, and I wait for you to say what you have and I start my Linux Computer.

Are you trying to install with something like; Add/Remove Programs?
I use 3 common ways to install in Ubuntu;
1. Applications > Add/Remove Programs (Games here mostly, Enter Root Password).

2. Applications > Accessories > Terminal (I use this most and explain). Terminal is like DOS to me. You will see your prompt. First I type; sudo aptitude update
Enter Root Password
Then Type; sudo aptitude install *Program you want*

3. System > Administration > Synaptic Package Manager
Enter Root Password
Here you have a window and I find it is best to "Search" for the Program you want. We hope it shows up and "Highlight" the Package and Install. It should also get anyother things the Package need to work.

Downloading and Installing I have not had to do, yet!
I think Terminal is best for me, but, I have had to use Synaptic.
Hope some of this helps.

Answer 3

dear newbee,
there is in fact a little problem with some of the linux distros by the "automatic log in" function, thus, by the first installation, it will log in with the "first registered user that you've created" by your linux installation. The problem that you mentioned just now has given me a sign that you always log in to your system using a-non-Superuser (non-root) account and you didn't notice this. In 80 percents of software installations, you're not required to log in as an administrator at your first boot but they will ask for Administrator password by the time you try to install them. Just enter the right password and you're in. But in 20 percents of the available installation software, it is well required to log in as a root. How to fix this? Well, I suggest you to learn more about how to create and delete users, than try to look for the username you've firstly created at the installation of your linux distro, than try to look for the way this user can log in onto your system.
I think, if Microsoft Windows was your previous system, you can similary administering your user account as well. Patient is all what you need, buddy, and you'll succeed!

Best Regards.

Answer 4

may be this can help u
http://www.perl.com/pub/a/2002/04/10/mod_perl.html