Changing run levels question

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

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.

Thanks :D ,

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

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. :wink: