How do I get root permission on an embedded system?

[MASONTX]

I have an Android netbook running Android 2.1. It boots right into the os when turned on, no account password or anything. I want to gain control of the system, so downloaded a terminal app, however, everything I type in, such as ls -l, or sudo ls -l, it tells me "you do not have permission". How do I give myself root priveledges, or get it to even let me use sudo? Thanks for any help.

[Manko10]

There is no general way of getting root access for embedded devices. It highly depends on which operating system you use and in which version (Android 2.1 in your case) and from which manufacturer.
The process of rooting your device is similar to jailbreaking an iPhone or iPad. There are some tools, but not all work for all Android versions on all devices.
We can't help you without knowing which Netbook you have. I recommend you google for "root name-of-your-netbook", perhaps with the addition "android". Also don't forget to check out the XDA Developers forum at Android Forums & Windows Phone Discussion @ xda-developers (of course search before you create a new posting ).

[MASONTX]

I found a discussion which recommended Z4root. I have it downloaded, and will try it when I get a chance tonight.

[lewmur]

I found a discussion which recommended Z4root. I have it downloaded, and will try it when I get a chance tonight.

Try googling "superuser.apk".

[MASONTX]

Thanks, I'll try that.

[ProfTheory]

And remember to set a root password so someone else can't remote into it.

[MASONTX]

And remember to set a root password so someone else can't remote into it.

I would if I could. These systems have no provision for root or user passwords, they flip the switch and they come on systems.

[sgosnell]

You might also want to download the Android SDK and install it. You get a number of tools for doing stuff, and that was the only way I found to install lots of stuff on my Android phone.

[ProfTheory]

Does it have a whoami command? Or users?
Before setting/change password you'll first want to find out who you are or possible lock yourself out.

[MASONTX]

No users. You push the power button, and, after a wait, your desktop appears. If I type whoamI into the terminal it comes back "not found".