Changing run levels question

[AdyBow]

Hi,

I know it may sound obvious but I would just like to know what the differences are between the multi-user run level and the single-user run level?

I have a root user account and my own user account. Does this qualify as a multi-user system?

Thanks,
Andy

[zdawg]

Linux is a multi-user O/S in essence. Single-user mode as opposed
to multi means you are always running as root (not a good idea at any time). A common use for reverting to single is a lost root password. So yes, you do have a multi-user system.

[AdyBow]

Thanks ,

Apologies if this seems a stupid question but how does changing to single user help with a lost root password? Don't you have to login with your root pasword?

Thanks,
Andy

[sarumont]

Changing to single user mode will log you in as root when you boot. Then you can change your password. That's why it's a good idea to secure your bootloader so this cannot be accomplished if you can't trust physical access to your box.