Complete Nooblet with Linux/Debian Question

[Etix]

Ok all sorry for the noob questions. I am trying to get a
apt-get update or any type of apt-get cmd and all I get in
return is:

E: could note open lock file /var/lib/dpkg/lock - open (13 Permission denied)
E: Unable to lock the administration directory (var/lib/dpkg), are you root?

Any explanation would be grand.

Also, my main reason for installing Linux is I have an older computer I'm trying to set up as a file server. Is there a better ver of Debian I can install that has a GUI? Something that will allow me to use as a file server without cmd line.

Thanks again

[oz]

Welcome to the forums!

Go to a terminal, su to root, then run:

apt-get update

Post back with any error messages.

[Etix]

Sorry what is su to root? If that means type su at the cmd line, it asks me for a pw. I typed in the only pw's that I entered when I installed.

Oh yes I should also mention that I have installed a NIC but the install didn't get the network started.

[oz]

Yes, the su command basically means switch user, and you are using it to gain root permissions. Check LinuxCommand.org for more info on using the command line.

When it asks for password, you'll need to enter the root password you created during the installation. A regular user password won't work. If you need to change/reset the root password, you can use this HowTo to do so, or you can reinstall Linux.