How to skip authentication for system updates?

[nodnolse1]

Hi I'm using Ubuntu Lucid Lynx and every time I search for updates it ask for authentication. I'd like to search and apply updates without confirmation. Is it possible in some manner?

Thanks, Paolo

[hazel]

It is a basic principle of Linux that you cannot install or modify software without being root or having root access via sudo (which is the way Ubuntu prefers to do it). Either way you have to give a password to show that you know what you are doing and have the authority to do it.

This is the very thing that stops worms and viruses from installing themselves on your computer behind your back as happens so often on Windows. It is an important part of what makes Linux so secure.

[nodnolse1]

[CUT] you have to give a password to show that you know what you are doing and have the authority to do it.

Hi Hazel, I'd like to do this only for system updates, not for all the rest. Updates come with a 'signing key' and the domain it's always the same. I think that in this cases and only for accounts in the 'wheel users', should be skipped the authentication check. Thanks, Paolo

[Rubberman]

I'll get back to you in a bit - my Ubuntu 10.10 laptop is updating right now, so I can't look at the settings options, BUT I think there is an auto-update capability. I'll verify that (or not) and get back to you soon.

[Rubberman]

Ok. Under "Automatic updates" in the Update Manager Settings page, you can enable the "Install security updates without confirmation" radio button. That's as far as it will let you do updates without requesting your password. There is a combo-box to set the frequency of checking for updates - daily, 2 days, weekly, 2 weeks.